Colourful plan: The Blue House Cluster in Wan Chai is among the second batch of historic buildings to be revitalised.

Non-profit-making organisations are invited to submit their proposals for revamping the second batch of premises under the Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme by noon on December 28.

The batch covers the Old Tai Po Police Station (relaunched), the Blue House Cluster, the former Fanling Magistracy, the old house in Wong Uk Village, and some stone houses.

Commissioner for Heritage Jack Chan said today the scheme aims to preserve and put historic buildings to innovative use, transform them into unique cultural landmarks, promote active public participation in conserving historic buildings and create jobs at the district level.

Eligible organisations can apply to use these buildings to provide services or businesses in the form of a social enterprise. Their joint ventures are welcome. The Advisory Committee on Revitalisation of Historic Buildings will assess the applications.

The Government will offer a one-stop advisory service to the successful applicants in taking forward their proposals in terms of heritage conservation, land use and planning, building architecture, and compliance with the Buildings Ordinance.

Where justified, financial support up to $5 million including a one-off grant to cover the costs of major building renovation and a grant to meet start-up costs and operating deficits of the proposed social enterprise for up to the first two years of operation will be provided. Nominal rent will be charged for the historic buildings.

Open days with guided tours will be arranged in September for prospective applicants to inspect the five buildings. A workshop will also be organised in late September to answer application enquiries. The application form, guide and resource kits are available here.