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Norway Extends Funding for Renovation of Manor Houses
Following the progress of renovations at Puurmani manor house, housing a local school, the Norwegian government announced on September 15 that it is extending renovation grants to 2014.
Officials yesterday said that Norwegian funding will be about 4.5 million euros.
"Of course, the priority is historical and cultural heritage, so we can maintain the buildings, with the aim of keeping them open for visitors," said Tõnu Kiviloo, chairman of the Estonian Manor School Board.
The so-called manor school movement began in 1990. Norwegian grants have already funded the renovation of heritage buildings at Väätsa, Puurmani, Laupa, Koigi, Olustvere, Kiltsi, Kõpu, Rogosi and Vasta.
The latest tranche of funding will be available by early 2012, at which point the Puurmani renovations will continue.
Thanks to Norwegian assistance, an overall projected that was expected to take 40 years will be done in five years.
Andres Kahar