Govt Invests €9 Million in Heritage Restoration Projects
Irish Government pledges to Invest €9 million in Heritage Restoration Projects Across Ireland!
The Irish government has pledged a significant €9 million investment to support the restoration and renovation of historically important structures across the country. A remarkable 676 projects will profit from this cash, which was given out by the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage.
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Advancing Ireland’s Heritage Restoration Projects
The grant breakdown reveals a two-pronged approach: €4.5 million will be distributed among 114 projects under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF). This marks the highest number of projects ever supported in a single year for the HSF program. Additionally, 562 grants will be awarded under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS), with 80 of these grants specifically earmarked for thatched-roof buildings.
The HSF scheme will see crucial upgrades undertaken at Bawnboy Workhouse in County Cavan, Dublin City’s Marsh’s Library, and Moore’s Shop in Trim, County Meath.
Meanwhile, the 2024 BHIS grants offer a glimpse into the diverse projects receiving support. Examples include €15,000 for the conservation of stained glass at St MacCullin’s Church in Lusk, County Dublin, €15,000 for roof repairs on the St. John’s Point Lightkeepers’ Cottages in Dunkineely, County Donegal, and just over €9,000 allocated for thatching work at Seanteach Phetie on Inis Oirr Island in County Galway.
“I’m delighted to declare €9 million in funding for 676 heritage projects throughout the country,” said Michael Noonan, Ireland’s Minister of Culture.
He went on to explain the importance of these funding programs, saying that “The Historic Structures Fund and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme offer vital support to the owners and guardians of our historic structures.” This enables them to restore old town centres, keep their distinctive character for future generations, and save and protect these priceless relics from our past.”
Minister Noonan underlined how committed the government is to preserving Ireland’s architectural legacy. The amount of cash available, he emphasised, shows the government’s continued commitment to the built heritage that people value and respect. Additionally, he pointed out that these programs create worthwhile employment possibilities for traditional craftsmen and tradespeople throughout Ireland, supporting the preservation of these distinctive talents.
Kieran O’Donnell, the minister of state for planning and local government, praised the news. Praising the grant schemes, he said they are great examples of what can be done when local authorities, especially the planning and administrative personnel, Architectural Conservation Officers, and Heritage Officers, work closely together.
In closing, he expressed his joy, saying, “I’m happy to see so many Heritage Restoration Projects receiving approval throughout the country this year. These schemes offer direct financial assistance where it’s most needed.”
