Over €3.5 million awarded for the repair and protection of 28 heritage buildings under this year’s Historic Structures Fund
- Published on: 27 March 2025
- Last updated on: 12 April 2025
Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, has today announced that over €3.5 million will be awarded to 28 projects throughout the country to help repair and protect landmark buildings as part of this year’s Historic Structures Fund (HSF).
Alongside other heritage funding streams such as the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the recently reopened Conservation Advice Grant Scheme, the HSF aims to conserve, protect, and promote the use of historic buildings across our cities, towns, villages, and countryside.
The funding recipients will benefit from the preservation of their historic structures, ensuring their long-term sustainability and usability. From providing safe and restored residential homes to supporting vital services like supported accommodation, these projects will have a lasting impact on their communities.
Operated on a match-funding basis, the HSF promotes the investment of private capital into the preservation and rejuvenation of our architectural heritage. In addition to the €3.5 million of HSF funding committed today, it is estimated that grantees will invest a further €7.6 million on these projects, which will support the work of traditional craftspeople while bringing many of our landmark buildings back to their former glory.
The projects awarded funding this year span the country and include:
- €250,000 for essential repairs to the housing and mechanism of the iconic four-faced clock tower on St. Anne's Church, Shandon, Cork City
- €68,780 for the rejuvenation of two adjoining town-centre properties in Athlone at Church Street and Lloyd’s Lane, including provision of ‘living-over-the-shop’ accommodation
- €130,000 for repairs to roof, rainwater goods and render at Ballast House, Crescent Quay, Co Wexford. A prominent town centre building in local authority ownership, works will facilitate reuse plans to bring the property back into use as office space
Announcing the list of successful projects, Minister O’Sullivan said:
“I am delighted to announce this award of significant funding for the repair and improvement of some of our most cherished heritage buildings. The works funded will secure the integrity of these sites for the enjoyment of future generations, and enhance the sustainability of local economies with great benefits for employment and the environment. Cultural and tourism hubs like Shandon Bells, Kinsale Museum, and Sirius Arts Centre will continue to attract visitors, fostering local pride and economic growth.”
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne said:
“I am delighted to see this fresh round of HSF grants, which will enhance the character and amenity of our cities, towns, villages, and countryside. I am particularly heartened to see disused historic buildings being given a new lease of life meeting the needs of communities across the country.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government and Planning, John Cummins said:
“The success of the Historic Structures Fund is a result of the close working relationship between the department and the Local Authorities, particularly the Architectural Conservation Officers, Heritage Officers and planning and administrative staff at local level who make these schemes possible and help ensure that these structures are maintained and restored for the benefit of their communities and for future generations.”
Further information
A full breakdown of the HSF funding allocation for 2025 can be found at: 2025 Historic Structures Fund (HSF) - Recommended Grant Offers.
Further information on Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS).
Further information on Conservation Advice Grant Scheme for Vacant Traditional Houses.