A new bursary scheme has been launched by the Dunbar Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) to address the declining number of skilled workers in traditional building techniques.

Applications for the scheme, which aims to support individuals looking to learn or enhance their skills in this specialised area, open on 1 April 2025.

Traditional buildings, defined as those constructed before 1919, constitute approximately 20% of Scotland's housing stock. However, a shortage of appropriately skilled craftspeople is leading to instances of unsuitable repairs, which can accelerate the deterioration of historic structures and cause irreversible damage.

In response, Dunbar CARS has established the Traditional Skills Bursary Scheme to provide financial assistance for individuals seeking training in traditional building skills and conservation. The scheme offers flexibility, supporting a wide array of courses, workshops, and seminars related to the sector. Eligible areas of study include stonemasonry, traditional joinery, and architectural metalworking.

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The bursary can be used to cover course fees, travel expenses, and accommodation, with applicants able to apply for up to £2,000. Dunbar CARS has highlighted several potential course providers, such as the Scottish Lime Centre Trust, the Engine Shed (Historic Environment Scotland), the Institute for Historic Building Conservation, and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. The CARS team is also available to advise on the eligibility of other identified training opportunities. Given that funding is limited, prospective applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

To promote the bursary scheme, Dunbar CARS has organised a series of hands-on activities in Dunbar town centre in the coming weeks. These include:

• Close Repair and Refurbishment: At Purves Close, Dunbar High Street, participants can learn how to rake out, point, and plaster a rubble wall using lime render and paint. Sessions will be led by Darren Brown and Ben Gilmour from The Ridge on Tuesday 8 April, Wednesday 9 April, and Thursday 10 April, with morning (10am-12pm) and afternoon (2-4pm) slots available.

• Hot Lime Workshop: At Black Bull Close, Dunbar High Street, Jamie Goodwin from The Ridge will demonstrate how to point a wall using hot lime. Sessions are scheduled for Saturday 26 April, with morning (10am-12pm) and afternoon (2-4pm) options.

Trainers will be available for question and answer sessions between 1pm and 2pm. Booking is essential for the two-hour taster sessions, and interested individuals are advised to email the team to secure a place. All necessary protective equipment and tools will be provided, and prior knowledge of the skills is not required.

Additionally, Dunbar CARS will participate in the community-led Spring Clean Weekend on 26 and 27 April. Local social enterprise, Forge and Equip, will conduct demonstration sessions outside the Museum and Town House on Saturday 26 April, showing how to repair and maintain rusty gates and railings, with drop-in sessions running from 11am to 4pm.