Torbay Local Heritage Grant Scheme opens with £250,000 National Lottery funding

Community groups across Torbay can now apply for funding to bring local heritage projects to life after the council secured nearly £250,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The Torbay Local Heritage Grant Scheme officially opened earlier this week (11 February 2026), offering grants of up to £5,000 for activity-based projects and up to £7,000 for capital investments such as signage, interpretation boards and physical improvements to heritage spaces.

This funding round focuses on the theme ‘Writers, Artists & Musicians on the English Riviera’, celebrating the cultural figures inspired by English Riviera and encouraging communities to explore what makes the area distinctive.

Local groups are being invited to think creatively about how they can engage residents through conservation work, commemorative plaques, heritage trails, digital enhancements at historic sites, installations or special events.

The theme builds on priorities set out in the Torbay Heritage Strategy and expands on the previously identified focus of “Writers on the Riviera”.

The scheme will run between 2026 and 2027, with funding awarded across three rounds:

• Round 1: Opens 11 February 2026 – closes 30 April 2026 (5pm)

• Round 2: Opens 1 June 2026 – closes 30 September 2026 (5pm)

• Round 3: Opens 1 February 2027 – closes 30 April 2027 (5pm)

All funded projects must be delivered by January 2028.

Applications will be reviewed by a decision panel comprising representatives from each of Torbay’s three towns, with at least three panel members under the age of 30. A Grants Adviser will soon be appointed to support groups preparing submissions.

Councillor Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services at Torbay Council, said the grants would strengthen communities’ connection with local heritage.

“These Local Heritage Grants will help to strengthen our communities’ connection with Torbay’s unique heritage. Working in partnership with local groups, we can shine a light on Torbay’s rich history and celebrate the iconic writers, artists and musicians who have been inspired by our beautiful region. I strongly encourage local groups to get involved.”

Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, added that the programme would help communities “explore, protect and share the heritage that makes this place so distinctive”.

The scheme also builds on Torbay’s status as one of the Heritage Fund’s designated Heritage Places, supporting long-term investment in local culture.

Groups interested in applying can find full details on the Local Heritage Grant Scheme webpage. The closing date for the first round of applications is Thursday 30 April 2026 at 5pm.