A new generation of skilled professionals with training in traditional construction crafts are preparing to support historic buildings across Fife.
As part of Inverkeithing’s heritage regeneration project, a bursary and mentoring programme allowed 26 people to access training in traditional skills at contractor level, nine at professional level, and seven individuals to work with an experienced mentor.
Centred in one of Fife’s oldest Royal Burghs, Inverkeithing’s heritage regeneration is a Fife Council project, with additional generous funding from Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Those involved learned about lime mortaring; conserving brick; plain lime plaster; repairing sash and case windows, and making, pigmenting, and applying lime harls and washes. Fife Council’s specialist heritage squad used their newly acquired lime washing skills to maintain the 1609 kirkyard memorial to Sir James Melville at Collessie.
Delivered by Fife Historic Buildings Trust on behalf of Fife Council, local elected members have maintained an enthusiastic involvement throughout the project. Convener of the south and west Fife area committee, councillor David Barratt, said, “It is wonderful that Inverkeithing has witnessed the exemplary conservation of the Town House, one of its five A-listed town centre buildings as a part of this local project, and alongside, has facilitated individuals and firms in Fife to enhance their traditional skills.”
Emma Griffiths, training and development officer at Fife Historic Buildings Trust, added, “Running the traditional skills bursaries is one of many great parts of my job. Matching people with courses, and enabling them to develop personally and professionally, is fantastic. Knowing their skills will be of enduring benefit to the heritage in Inverkeithing, Fife and even beyond, is very satisfying.”
