Heritage charity sparks fresh optisism for historic Erewash buildings

The Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust (DHBT) has expressed its collective excitement after announcing an innovative project to safeguard endangered heritage buildings which will expand into Erewash during January 2026, thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Two public information sessions for all those interested in the project will take place on Thursday 29th January at the Erewash Museum from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and on Saturday 7th February at Morley Retreat from 10:00am-12noon.

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. Those interested in attending should visit the ‘What’s On’ section of the DHBT website to book a free ticket.

Since its initial introduction to the public in October 2024, the Derbyshire ‘Buildings at Risk’ (B@R) initiative has continued to go from strength to strength. To date, more than 150 committed volunteers have helped to survey over 1500 Grade II listed buildings, with the help of a digital app.

The app- created by the West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust with support from Historic England- uses a colour-coding system to indicate each building’s condition. Volunteers can use it to identify structures that may require urgent attention. The data collected builds a continuous record, helping DHBT detect risks early and work with partners to prioritise the most vulnerable buildings.

Allan Morrison, DHBT’s lead Trustee for the B@R project, highlighted the exciting developments since its launch.

He said: “Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, dozens of enthusiastic volunteer surveyors have been trained to check on the condition of all Grade II listed buildings in Derbyshire,”

“Since the project started nearly 18 months ago, Amber Valley Borough and Derby City have been covered, and South Derbyshire is well underway. Now we are looking for volunteer surveyors to help us check on all Grade II listed buildings in Erewash Borough.”

Volunteers can participate in the project whenever it suits them and at their own pace, which makes it an ideal opportunity for anyone looking to explore the history of the county and spend time outdoors. Along with opportunities for independent volunteering, the Trust also runs a programme of support and social events including ‘Social Survey Strolls’, drop-ins and 1:1 support sessions.

DHBT is collaborating closely with local councils, community groups and The University of Derby to ensure that the project reaches and benefits as many people as possible.

Following the project in Erewash, the project will expand to other areas of the county. Interested individuals, even those outside the current survey area, are encouraged to register their interest via email at: volunteers @ derbyshirehistoricbuildingstrust.org.uk.

For further details on the project, visit the DHBT website and social media pages @dhbtrust or contact Anna Cluley on 07478 462857

The project has been made possible thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.