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Two Kent towns are getting a share of a £95 million fund to help revive their centres.
Chatham and Ramsgate's High Streets are among 69 across England getting the money from Historic England following 200 entries.
This cash comes from the organisation's High Street Heritage Action Zones scheme.
The organisation says that a successful, vibrant high street is both a focus for local commerce but also the community.
They are among the few places where people from all backgrounds can meet.
Historic England says recognises that high streets are in decline.
It is well documented that a number of shops in town centres are closed due to pressures such as competition from internet shopping and the growth of out of town retailers.
Debbie Hickman of Historic England said: "There are a number of empty properties on the high street due to competition from out of town retailers.
"The High Street Heritage Action Zone hopes to help the area to become a cultural and creative hub with a rich mix of artists, creatives and makers occupying under-used historic buildings that are currently in need of refurbishment and conversion.
"Chatham has a lot of untapped potential and character.
"It also has an above average population and is experiencing high population growth.
"With improvements to rail services it is becoming a more popular commuter destination.
"Now is the time to make the most of the town’s heritage."
In May it was announced that nine historic sites in Ramsgate where granted listed status by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on the advice if Historic England.
This was in recognition for its status as a Heritage Action Zone.
The nine, all Grade II Listed, include a 1950s Festival of Britain Fountain in Victoria Parade an octagonal seafront newspaper kiosk in Victoria Gardens and the NatWest Bank building in the High Street.
The Heritage Action Zone scheme is an initiative to create economic growth and improve quality of life in places.
Working with other groups such as councils and businesses Heritage England is trying to breath new life into places that are rich in heritage.
The idea is to unlock their potential and to make them more attractive to residents, businesses, tourists and investors.
The methods include changing disused historic buildings into shops, houses and community centres.
