Process for the popular scheme will be staggered
The Planning Authority has opened this year’s €30 million Irrestawra Darek(Restore Your Home) scheme, offering grants to help owners, tenants and NGOs restore traditional façades and architectural features in Urban Conservation Areas.
The scheme, totalling €30 million in funds, provides financial assistance to owners, tenants and NGOs to restore and maintain traditional façades and architectural elements in their properties.
Previous calls for the scheme had been taken up within minutes of opening, so this year applications are being opened in a staggered process based on region.
Calls for the West region opened on Wednesday, with €4.5 million allocated for the area.
People with properties in Mdina, Siġġiewi, Żebbuġ, Dingli, Rabat, Kirkop, Mqabba, Qrendi, Safi and Żurrieq can apply in this first rollout.
Applicants have until February 18 to submit their expression of interest either through the Planning Authority website or in person at its offices.
During this phase, the authority will verify eligibility and request site plans where necessary.
If they pass through this phase, property owners will have to provide more details, including site plans, quotes for works and declarations of ownership.
“Once the application period for the West region closes, a new period for a new region will start, and once again there will be a three-week application period,” the Planning Authority said.
Funding for each project is capped at €15,000 for regular properties in the Urban Conservation Area, €50,000 for Grade 2 scheduled properties in the UCA, and €100,000 for Grade 1 scheduled properties in the UCA.
The financial allocation per region is based on the number of traditional dwellings within each region. Unused funds may be reallocated based on uptake, the authority said in a statement.
The funding for the South region is €5 million, Gozo – €1.5 million, the port region – €9 million, the North region – €3.5 million, and the East region – €6.5 million.
In a statement, Planning Minister Clint Camilleri said the scheme not only helps preserve traditional buildings but is also a direct investment in communities.
“In this way, we are ensuring our architectural identity is preserved and appreciated by future generations,” said Camilleri, an architect by profession.
Source: Times of Malta
