La Laguna Launches €175,000 Grant Program to Preserve Historic Properties

La Laguna City Council has launched a new €175,000 grant program to help owners maintain historic properties. The initiative aims to ease the financial strain on residents who own protected buildings, a common challenge in a municipality that includes a UNESCO World Heritage city center and many other protected sites.

Adolfo Cordobés, the Councilor for Cultural Heritage and Land Use Planning, noted that the city is currently expanding its protection list. Officials are working to legally safeguard over 650 additional structures across the municipality. To ensure these buildings are maintained properly, the council is providing this financial support to help owners meet strict conservation requirements.

The grants will be awarded through a competitive bidding process, with applications open until June 19. Funding can be used for a wide range of improvements, including restoring facades and roofs, upgrading plumbing and electrical systems, and increasing accessibility. To qualify, owners must have obtained a building permit from the Municipal Urban Planning Office between January 1 of this year and the application deadline. The grants may also cover technical fees and architectural surveys required by law.

This program is part of the council’s broader Strategic Subsidy Plan. Last year, the city awarded over €112,000 to 24 property owners; the increased budget of €175,000 reflects the high demand seen in previous years. Alongside these grants, the council is updating its Historic City Management Plan and Special Protection Plan to ensure that preserving the city’s heritage remains affordable and sustainable for its residents.