ALSTON town centre is in line for a £1.7m facelift following a monster Lottery win.

An ambitious scheme will not only see improvements carried out to architecturally important properties on Front Street and Market Street within the town’s conservation area, but also lay on a varied programme of heritage events over the next five years.

The work has been made possible by a grant of £1.3m to the Alston Moor Partnership from the Heritage Lottery Fund, with further cash coming from Eden District Council, Alston Moor Parish Council and individual contributions.

It is intended to give a much needed boost to the local economy and increase business confidence, bringing more visitors into the town as well as encouraging residents to make more use of their local shops.

Events planned include heritage skills fairs and workshops, stone festivals, energy efficiency sessions, and building and property tours.

There are also a number of training opportunities for local tradespeople, builders and contractors, with over 20 heritage skills training events planned and the opportunity to access formal training in areas such as traditional building repairs, cobbling and working with lime.

Chairman of Alston Moor Partnership, Sonia Kempsey, explained: “I’m delighted that all our hard work has paid off to help ensure our historic town centre will continue to thrive.

“In particular I’d like to thank Eden District Council and Alston Moor Parish Council for their support, without which this wouldn’t have been possible, and also a big thank you to our excellent project manager, Jennifer Campbell, and our financial manager, Aileen Ellwood, who were both essential in ensuring that we put in a successful bid.”

Head of Heritage Lottery Fund North-West, Sara Hilton, said: “We’re delighted to support this exciting project to protect the unique character and strengthen the local economy of Alston’s historic heart.

“This innovative community partnership, as well as investment of National Lottery players’ money, will also provide opportunities for local residents and tradespeople to gain skills, pride and involvement in the future of their town.”

Eden district councillor David Hymers, congratulated the partnership. He said; “I am delighted that through working with the partnership and providing match funding of £50,000 we have been able to secure this significant investment in Alston Moor.”