A county-wide heritage project aimed at protecting vulnerable historic buildings is expanding into Erewash this month, with residents being invited to take part.
The initiative is being led by Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust, which is rolling out its Buildings at Risk (B@R) project across the borough following funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The project uses a digital app to help volunteers survey the condition of Grade II listed buildings, creating an up-to-date picture of which historic sites may be at risk of deterioration.
Public launch events in Erewash
Two public information sessions are being held locally to introduce the project and train new volunteers.
The first will take place on Thursday 29 January at Erewash Museum between 2pm and 4pm. A second session will follow on Saturday 7 February at Morley Retreat from 10am to 12pm.
Attendees will be shown how to use the B@R app, receive initial training, and have the chance to speak directly with the project team. Places are free but must be booked in advance via the Trust’s website.
Building on earlier success
The Derbyshire Buildings at Risk project was first launched in October 2024 and has already attracted more than 150 volunteers, who have collectively surveyed over 1,500 listed buildings across the county.
Using the app, volunteers record a building’s condition through a colour-coded system, helping to identify early signs of decline. The data collected creates a long-term record, allowing risks to be flagged before damage becomes irreversible.
Allan Morrison, lead trustee for the project, said the expansion into Erewash marked the next phase of the work.
“Thanks to National Lottery funding, dozens of volunteer surveyors have already been trained to check the condition of all Grade II listed buildings in Derbyshire,” he said. “Amber Valley Borough and Derby City have been covered, and South Derbyshire is well underway. We’re now looking for volunteers to help us check all Grade II listed buildings in Erewash.”
Open to all
The Trust says the project is designed to be flexible, allowing volunteers to take part at their own pace. Alongside independent surveys, participants can also join organised Social Survey Strolls, drop-in sessions and one-to-one support events.
The project is being delivered in partnership with local councils, community groups and the University of Derby, with the aim of widening access to heritage and encouraging more people to engage with their local history.
How to get involved
Residents interested in volunteering can attend one of the launch events or register their interest by emailing volunteers@derbyshirehistoricbuildingstrust.org.uk. Further information is available via the Trust’s website and social media channels.