A project to preserve a landmark Queenstown heritage building is the recipient of the Queenstown Lakes District Council?s first heritage incentive grant.

Stephen Brent and partner Sheena Haywood were presented with a $1500 cheque yesterday by QLDC Mayor Clive Geddes for their project of relocating and restoring the historic Laurel Bank house on Frankton Road, Queenstown.

The heritage incentive grant, launched in July was designed to assist with professional fees and consent costs incurred as a result of a heritage listing.

"Laurel Bank is a very worthy recipient of the first grant the council has made. I commend Sheena and Stephen for their commitment to preserving this important part of the district's heritage," Mayor Clive Geddes said.

The couple planned to relocate a large section of the house onto a two hectare site on the Ladies Mile, where it would be restored to be used as their home.

The Queenstown and District Historical Society and the New Zealand Historic Places Trust had been consulted and agreed the Ladies Mile site would achieve a desirable preservation outcome.

"We are looking forward to the challenge and are delighted that the council has recognised the work that goes into the preservation of a heritage building," Mr Brent said.

Although the house was to be moved by its present owners Perron Laurel Limited, to Arrowtown, the new proposal meant more of the house could be preserved and on a bigger site.

The date for relocating the heritage home would be confirmed, pending resource consent.

ENDS

For more information please contact QLDC senior planning analyst Scott Figenshow 03 441 0499 or Stephen Brent 03 409 2006.

By: Sarah