HLF invests £30m in Coventry’s transformation over 21 years
In the 21 years since HLF was created a total of more than £30million has been invested in 125 separate projects in Coventry. The cumulative impact of this investment has helped drive the on-going development of this historic city.
Regeneration of the Burges quarter
HLF has recently earmarked nearly £2m to kick start the regeneration of Coventry’s Burges quarter, through HLF’s Townscape Heritage scheme. This is the same programme that supported the widely acclaimed rejuvenation of Far Gosford Street several years ago where two grants, totalling £2.7m, have breathed new life into the area.
[quote=Councillor Kevin Maton]"We have been able to regenerate and re-invigorate some of the most historic buildings and areas we have throughout the city."[/quote]
Councillor Kevin Maton, Coventry City Council’s Cabinet Member for Business, Enterprise and Employment, said: “Over the years we have benefited hugely in terms of HLF grants we have received, which means we have been able to regenerate and re-invigorate some of the most historic buildings and areas we have throughout the city.
“These grants are also playing a huge part in aiding our Coventry 2021 UK City of Culture Bid. They are not only allowing us to show the world what we have to offer, but also to create a legacy for years to come by growing the arts and culture available which will attract people back into the heart of Coventry.”
Coventry’s Heritage Park
A further project is to establish a 70-acre Heritage Park combining the grounds of the 14th-century former Carthusian Monastery – The Charterhouse - Joseph Paxton’s Arboretum Cemetery and the Stephenson viaduct. The project, for which more than £4.3m in funding has been earmarked, would create a parkland with historic landscape and woodland walks within 10 minutes walk of the city centre.
Other major Coventry projects supported by HLF over the years include almost £5m for an overhaul and expansion of the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, nearly £1m to redevelop the Belgrade Theatre and a similar amount to create a new frontage for Coventry Transport Museum.
