We are delighted to announce that we have received initial support* from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for the Discovering the Bishop of London’s Palace at Fulham project, which will restore the Palace’s Tudor quadrangle, Great Hall and gardens.
The first round pass was awarded by the HLF at a committee meeting on 12 March. Development funding of £119,000 has also been awarded to help FPT produce detailed plans in order to make a second round application to HLF in summer 2016. If this is successful work will begin on site in spring 2017.
Fulham Palace is a site of incredibly strong heritage merit, boasting over 1,300 years of history. In the last 10 years it has been transformed, with the support of HLF and the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, from a derelict and rarely visited site into a partially restored historic house and garden with a growing following in the local community. In this next phase we will be working to complete the restoration of the Palace, open up new areas to the public and provide interpretation, exhibitions, events, training, and new roles for volunteers. Alongside this the organisation’s viability will be improved through increased income and reduced energy costs.
The total project costs are anticipated to be £3.45 million and HLF will be contributing just under £2 million if the Trust is successful at round two. FPT has 18 months to raise £1.45 million in order to make sure the project goes ahead.
Commenting on the award, Fulham Palace Trust Chief Executive Siân Harrington said: “We are so pleased that the Heritage Lottery Fund is as enthusiastic about Fulham Palace as we are, and shares our ambition to widen access and appreciation of the Palace’s rich and eventful history and horticulture.”
Sue Bowers, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund London, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, Fulham Palace Trust has previously completed two successful projects which restored and explored the heritage of the Palace and its gardens. We look forward to seeing their completed plans for the next exciting chapter of Fulham Palace’s heritage story and to create a sustainable future for the popular site.”
About the Heritage Lottery Fund:
*Heritage Grant applications are assessed in two rounds. A first-round pass is given when HLF has endorsed outline proposals and earmarked funding. A first-round pass may also include an immediate award to fund the development of the project. Detailed proposals are then considered by HLF at second-round and as long as plans have progressed satisfactorily and according to the original proposal, an award for the project is confirmed.
From the archaeology under our feet to the historic parks and buildings we love, from precious memories and collections to rare wildlife, we use National Lottery players’ money to help people across the UK explore, enjoy and protect the heritage they care about. www.hlf.org.uk