BUSINESS owners and householders in a conservation area can bid for money to repair the outside of traditional buildings.

The Northgate Partnership Scheme has been set up to restore damaged architecture around the Northgate area of Darlington.

English Heritage and Darlington Borough Council have jointly funded the scheme.

Grants are available for essential structure work, roof and chimney repairs, guttering, stonework, reinstatement of historic metalwork and professional fees.

Modern or alteration work is not covered by the scheme.

Up to 70 per cent of the costs are available.

A minimum of three quotations are needed to support an application. The grant will be paid after the work is finished.

For details, contact Martyn Kendall on (01325) 388604.