Leitrim heritage projects among €9m in funding announced under HSF scheme

Malcolm Noonan TD, the Minister of State responsible for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, has announced that 676 heritage projects across every county will receive €9 million in financial support through the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) for 2024.

Both schemes support the conservation of historic buildings for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations and are managed jointly by the National Built Heritage Service (NBHS) in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and a network of conservation staff in the 31 local authorities, including expert Architectural Conservation Officers.

Nine Leitrim heritage projects are set to receive funding under HSF and BHIS schemes: 

• Leitrim County Council Mainstream: €96,136.25
• St. Mary's Church, Farnaught Parish, Mohill Roof & Window Repairs €15,000.00
• Lurganboy Lodge, Manorhamilton External Walls €6,136.25
• Mary, Mother Of God Church, Dromahaire External Walls €15,000.00
• The Old Town Hall, Carrick-On- Shannon Roof & Window Repairs €15,000.00
• St. Brigid's Church, Drumcong Roofs €15,000.00
• Druminshin Glebe House, Carrigallen Roofs €15,000.00
• Red Bank Restaurant, Carrick-On- Shannon Windows, Doors & Associated Elements €15,000.00

The schemes fund a variety of repairs and renovation works to prevent deterioration, protect character, and encourage the re-use of protected structures. The schemes also provide important support for the employment of traditional craftspeople and conservation professionals.  

Announcing the awards today, Minister Noonan said: "The level of funding available highlights the Government's ongoing commitment to the built heritage that communities know and love. These schemes also provide valuable work for the many traditional craft and tradespeople across Ireland, helping to keep these unique skills alive."

Welcoming the awards, Green Party Candidate for the Ballinamore LEA, Adam Ó Ceallaigh said: "It is brilliant to see €96,000 getting spent in Leitrim to help support the custodians of historic structures. Ensuring the enduring presence of these historic landmarks across various towns county-wide is vital, as they hold a central place in local communities and are cherished and recognised by many." 

The HSF provides grants of between €15,000 and €200,000 to support major conservation works on significant historic buildings. This year, €4.5 million in funding will support 114 projects, the largest ever number approved for funding under the HSF. 

The BHIS provides grants of up to €15,000 for maintenance and smaller conservation works to help prevent historic buildings from falling into disrepair and possible disuse - the scheme also includes ring-fenced funding for historic thatched buildings, with a maximum grant of €20,000. This year, 562 BHIS grants will be awarded across the country, including 80 for thatched buildings, amounting to €4.5 million in funding.