Grants for repairs to listed buildings are up for grabs - but only for a limited time.

The Maldon Conservation Area Partnership Scheme has been running for three years and is offering financial help towards repairs for another four months.

But Maldon District Council officer Robert Scrimgeour warned it was unlikely funding would be renewed after the deadline on March 31.

The demand has been high for the scheme, with an extra £24,000 provided by English Heritage this year alone for new sandstone paving at the top of the High Street, in addition to the original pot of money.

"It is a well-used fund but English Heritage agreed it was a three year scheme.

"They are putting more money into urban regeneration and areas of deprivation now, and Maldon doesn't fit into that," he said.

The successful scheme has allowed owners of the town's listed buildings to work on renovating the protected properties.

A building in the High Street which now houses two shops and a flat has been given Victorian awnings and another house on Market Hill has seen a complete face-lift.

"It was very neglected before the new owners applied for a grant. Since they've taken the project on it looks so much better. They've done an excellent job," said Mr Scrimgeour.

Although new applications will be refused after the end of March, the scheme will continue to fund projects already running for a further two years.

Homeowners can still apply to Mr Scrimgeour for a grant on 01621 875725

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