The Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust (DHBT) is launching an innovative project aimed at protecting endangered heritage buildings across the county, thanks to a £207,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The Derbyshire “Buildings at Risk” (B@R) initiative, starting in Amber Valley, will be introduced to the public at a special event in Belper in the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site on Thursday, 24th October. The project will identify and monitor the condition of hundreds of vulnerable listed buildings, with the help of a new digital app.
The app, which uses a colour coding system to categorise buildings by their state of repair, allows volunteers to report structures that may need urgent attention. The information gathered will form an ongoing record, enabling DHBT to address risks early on.
DHBT is working closely with local councils and the Amber Valley Centre for Voluntary Services (AVCVS) to ensure that as many people as possible can benefit from the project. In addition, the project aligns with efforts to improve health and wellbeing, encouraging people to spend more time outdoors whilst discovering more about their local history. The involvement of social prescribers ensures that the project not only helps to safeguard heritage but also promotes healthier, more active lifestyles.
Public Launch Event in Belper
Two public information sessions for all those interested in the project will take place on Thursday, 24th October at the Strutts Community Centre in Belper, one from 3-5pm and one from 6.30-8.30pm. Attendees will be introduced to the B@R app and provided with initial training. These meetings offer the chance to speak with the DHBT team, get hands-on support with the app, and enjoy refreshments.
Following the pilot in Amber Valley, the project will expand to Derby City and other areas of the county. Interested individuals, even those outside the initial survey area, are encouraged to register their interest via email at: [email protected]
Click here to book yourself on to the 24th October event.