A PROJECT to protect and conserve a town’s 19th century former grammar school building has been awarded lottery funding.

Richmondshire Building Preservation Trust (RBPT) received initial support from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for Richmond’s Old Grammar School project.

Funding of £155,000 has been awarded to help the Trust progress plans towards applying for a full grant later.

This National Lottery award is on top of £25,000 from the Architectural Heritage Fund.

The grade II listed building, unused since 2011, has been identified to provide community uses supported by commercial enterprises.

Uses being considered include a small independent hostel; community offices; a multi-use community hall; function room; second-hand bookshop and café.

James Gravenor, RBPT trustee and Old Grammar School committee chair, said: “Richmond School has educated artists, archbishops, admirals, authors and adventurers and is a special building in a wonderful location.

“We are grateful for the support to preserve this building and to bring it back to life for the benefit of the residents of and visitors to Richmond, the cultural capital of The Dales."

If the RBPT is successful in receiving second round funding from the HLF, Richmondshire District Council will hand over the building to the Trust.

Councillor Yvonne Peacock, Richmondshire District Council leader, said: “We believe this is a fantastic opportunity to preserve this important local building and put it to community use next to the new council offices.

“The RBPT have a proven track record of delivering local projects and we are confident that they will provide a great new facility for the public.”