Funding boost for works to restore historic buildings in Clare
Grants will be used to repair, restore, and protect historic structures from modest traditional homes to landmark public buildings
More than €150,000 in funding has been allocated for restoration and upgrade works on ten buildings in Clare under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2025.
The scheme supports property owners to conserve and enhance our historic buildings and streetscapes, and at the same time preserve and develop traditional building skills.
This year’s grants will be used to repair, restore, and protect historic structures from modest traditional homes to landmark public buildings in Clare and across the country.
In addition to the funding provided under BHIS, owners and custodians will themselves commit additional monies, from their own resources, marking this as a very significant investment in our built heritage and the traditional building skills which support it.
Under BHIS, money has been ringfences for works on thatched properties, including one in Clare.
A total of €12,275.73 has been allocated for thatching works at Fintra More Cottage, Miltown Malbay.
Speaking following the announcement, Christopher O'Sullivan, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage, and Biodiversity, said: “Ireland’s built heritage is a national asset which enriches our countryside, villages, towns, and cities. In maintaining and caring for our historic buildings, owners and custodians perform a valuable public service, and I am delighted to be able to support their efforts.
Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage James Browne TD added: “I am proud of the part the BHIS plays in protecting and enhancing the historic fabric and character of our streetscapes and countryside. When combined with existing and new initiatives to revitalise our town centres and bring vacant and derelict properties back into use, the BHIS and other conservation schemes will help ensure that our historic buildings can continue to serve as fine homes at the heart of our communities for many years to come.”
Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, John Cummins commented, "This funding from Government will greatly assist with protecting historic buildings which contribute to a community’s sense of identity, often forming the heart of a city or town. This year’s grants will be used to repair, restore, and protect historic structures from modest traditional homes to landmark public buildings.