A HERITAGE centre in a Portskewett churchyard could be another step closer to becoming a reality with £2,000 of grant funding.

The Grade Two listed cottage, built in the 17th century, is located in the yard of St Mary’s Church in Portskewett and has been derelict for a number of years.

After a grant of £69,000 last August, Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) Cabinet could today (11th January) approve a further £2,000 of grant funding from Monmouthshire’s Welsh Church Fund.

A planning application for the restoration of the cottage was formally submitted to Monmouthshire County Council in August last year, announcing plans to create a Heritage Centre including space for interpretation, a toilet and catering facilities.

Plans to restore the St Mary’s outbuilding would see the currently boarded up windows replaced with timber double glazed units, while a new timber clad door will be installed.

Internally, the heritage building will have space for display, a toilet and a catering point fitted with base and wall units, the internal walls and ceiling will be drylined.

According the the design and access statement from Hereford-based Hook Mason Limited, the building’s listed status and location within the area will be enhanced by the sensitive changes proposed in this application as the current building is derelict and an eyesore.

Last March the project was awarded more than £69,000 in funding by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The group, known as Portskewett Heritage Centre, requested £5,000 to assist in the restoration of the building.

The Welsh Church Fund working group recommends that £2,000 is awarded at the cabinet meeting today.