The proposed ‘heritage action zone’ would cover two main areas – Devonport and St Peter, and the Waterfront – over five years.

This would lead to essential improvement and restoration work being carried out on listed and scheduled buildings and monuments.

Councillor Glenn Jordan said: “We’ve been in touch with all the owners of these properties and they support this bid.

“There are some incredible historic buildings here in Plymouth, but their age and condition means maintenance can be a real challenge for their owners.

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“A heritage action zone could act as a catalyst for housing developments as well as help the owners of these properties – and the city – maximise the potential these buildings have.”

The council will find out if the bid has been successful next spring

The landmarks to be covered by the zone are:

• Devonport Library (Grade II listed and in a Devonport conservation area)
• Main Gatehouse at Raglan Barracks (Grade II listed)
• Boringdon Arch (Grade II* listed and scheduled ancient monument)
• Lee Moor Tramway Bridge (scheduled ancient monument)
• Civic Centre and surrounding landscape (Grade II listed)
• How Street (Barbican Conservation Area and surrounded by Grade II-listed buildings)
• Millbay Docks, Inner Basin (Grade II listed)
• Wyndham Hall, former non-conformist chapel (Grade II listed and in North Stonehouse conservation area).