The boost to the historic character of Whithorn continues apace with the completion of improvements to Bruce Street which now incorporates traditional detailing amid the historic Priory and Church.

In the two years since the conservation area regeneration scheme was launched the owners of 30 properties have now been offered repair grants and so far 15 of these have completed works.

That was the message applicants to the scheme, representatives from the Community Council, the Business Association, interested members of the public and ward councillors heard at a public meeting on the progress of the scheme, held at Whithorn on the evening of the 16 April.

With the general grants fund of £231,000 almost fully committed the meeting heard how the Whithorn CARS had become a victim of its own success and that no further new applications were to be taken.

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The meeting also heard how the grants were enabling property owners to restore and repair important historic buildings in the heart of the town to a high conservation standard giving a noticeable lift to the historic character and appearance of the town. The Whithorn CARS, by helping to improve the appearance of the town, aims to make the town more attractive for residents and visitors, and thereby providing a boost to the local economy. The scheme is also an important part of a wider regeneration effort to promote the importance of Whithorn as the cradle of Scottish Christianity and as a centre of modern pilgrimage.

The restoration scheme is being funded by Historic Scotland and Dumfries and Galloway Council. The Chairman of the Wigtown Area Committee, Councillor Graham Nicol, said: "The Whithorn CARS is a success story. It was originally envisaged that 25 or 26 properties might apply for grants whereas 30 grants have been offered.

"A great deal of good has been done, with the limited funding available, to help people to meet the cost of repairs and improvements to their homes and business premises and to make the town more attractive to residents and visitors."

(GK/JM)