Vale House has been awarded a significant grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to support its ongoing restoration project. The funding will enable essential repairs to the Grade II-listed building in the Peak District, preserving its architectural features for future generations.

Restoration Scope and Funding

The £1.2 million grant will cover roof repairs, stonework conservation, and the installation of sustainable heating systems. Project leaders say the work addresses decades of wear while improving energy efficiency. Vale House, built in the 18th century as a country residence, has stood empty since the 1980s. Earlier phases of restoration focused on structural stabilisation, but further investment was required to complete the interior and grounds.

Heritage experts have praised the grant as a model of public funding for historic properties. The National Lottery Heritage Fund noted that the application demonstrated strong community support and clear plans for public access once works are finished. Local volunteers have contributed thousands of hours to documentation and research, helping secure the award.

Future Access and Legacy

Once complete, Vale House will open to the public for guided tours, educational workshops, and community events. Organisers expect the site to attract visitors interested in industrial and social history of the region. A small exhibition space will display artefacts recovered during the restoration, including original fixtures and archival photographs.

Project manager Eleanor Whitby said the funding represents a turning point for the property. She emphasised that the restoration will create skilled employment opportunities and support local suppliers. The team plans to complete the main works within three years, subject to planning approvals and weather conditions. Additional fundraising will target garden restoration and maintenance endowments to ensure long-term viability.