Heysham Heritage Centre
This 17th century longhouse (cottage and barn) is an unusual example of surviving 17th century village architecture. In the 20th century the longhouse was converted into a cottage and two lock up shops, No. 22, 24, 26 Main St. Heritage Trust for the North West acquired the two lock up shops in 1999 and converted with grant aid from many organisations and individuals to form a small Heritage Centre for Heysham Village.
The Centre was opened in 2000, and has been visited by over 80,000 people, exceeding all expectations. It is run entirely by dedicated volunteers from Heysham Heritage Association, with a small grant from Lancaster City Council.
However the space is very limited, and the Trust's long term aim has been to acquire the cottage part of the longhouse, if the opportunity arose.
Last Summer the Trust acquired the cottage, with a loan from the Architectural Heritage Fund which has to be repaid within two years, and is currently preparing plans for conversion and refurbishment with M. Harrison Architects to enable the centre to expand its work.
The Trust's priority is to pay off the loan of £90,000 on the acquisition costs. Most grant making bodies are unable to fund this part of the work, but will support the restoration costs, so the Trust is launching an Appeal for funds to clear the debt.
Appeal for funds How can you help?
£200,000 is required urgently and will be shared equally between Heysham Heritage Centre and St Peter's Church.
The Appeal is a partnership between St Peter's Church, Heysham Heritage Association and Heritage Trust for the North West (Registered Charity No. 508300).
Save Heysham's Heritage Lecture: Monday 9th February: Georgian Buildings in the Lancaster area, an illustrated lecture by John Champness (Author and former County Conservation Officer) click here for more details
