Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust is delighted to have received a financial boost of £143,100 from the government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.
The historic Abbey is one of 445 heritage organisations across the country set to receive a share of £103 million designed to restart vital reconstruction work and maintenance on cherished heritage sites, keeping venues open and supporting those working in the sector during the coronavirus pandemic.
The grant will enable Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust to develop its wellbeing and community engagement programmes, and to kick-start a feasibility study on repurposing its 19th century stables which will help to secure its long-term sustainability and deliver a new destination experience for the town.
Richard Clinton, Chief Executive of Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust said:
“The Abbey is a much-loved community asset and we were thrilled to welcome back our communities when we reopened the house, grounds, café, and restaurant a few months back. This funding will enable us to continue to celebrate and care for our town’s shared heritage, and to give back through crucial wellbeing and community programmes, designed to help individuals through this difficult time.”
This vital funding is from the Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage and the Heritage Stimulus Fund – funded by Government and administered at arms length by Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Both funds are part of the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund which is designed to secure the future of Britain’s museums, galleries, theatres, independent cinemas, heritage sites and music venues with emergency grants and loans.
Andrew Lewer, MP for Northampton South said: “Delapré Abbey is such a major part of the heritage of Northampton and the country and I am thrilled this money will help it weather the Covid storm and be there for future generations to enjoy.
“Not only can we learn so much and gain so much insight from our heritage, but it also provides jobs and a boost for the local economy in many ways.”
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “As a nation it is essential that we preserve our heritage and celebrate and learn from our past. This massive support package will protect our shared heritage for future generations, save jobs and help us prepare for a cultural bounceback post covid.”
Ros Kerslake, Chief Executive of the National Lottery Heritage Fund said:
“It is absolutely right that investing in heritage should be a priority during this crisis and this support by Government is crucial. Heritage creates jobs and economic prosperity, is a major driver for tourism and makes our towns, cities, and rural areas better places to live. All of this is so important for our wellbeing and will be particularly vital when we start to emerge from this incredibly difficult time.
“Our heritage is still facing a perilous future – we are not out of the woods yet. But this hugely welcome funding from Government, and the money we continue to invest from the National Lottery, has undoubtedly stopped heritage and the organisations that care for it being permanently lost.”
Delapré Abbey and its grounds, The Orangery café, and restaurant Hibiscus are open to visitors. You can continue to support this treasured heritage site by visiting the house, taking part in the events programme, dining at the café and restaurant, hiring the venue, or through making a donation. Visit Delapré Abbey for more information.
