I recently launched the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Historic Structures Fund for 2020. Both schemes will be open for applications until 31 January 2020.
Together, these two schemes represent a combined investment by my Department of up to €4.3 million to support hundreds of built heritage projects across the country in 2020.’
I have introduced a new stream of funding to the Built Heritage Investment Stream this year for minor repair works and routine maintenance. Maintenance is identified as a cost-effective way to increase resilience to both current stressors and the impact of future climate change.
As in previous years, the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Historic Structures Fund will support the owners and custodians of protected structures in every local authority area across the country as they carry out hundreds of small-scale, labour-intensive projects to repair and conserve our historic built environment. The projects will also provide vital support – and in some cases, training – for local jobs in conservation, traditional skills and construction.
The funding announced includes up to €2.5 million funding for the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and up to €1.8 million for the Historic Structures Fund. Applications open from today until 31 January 2020. This Exchequer funding will attract matching funds, yielding a total investment in our built heritage of over €8 million in 2020. Details of the schemes and how to apply are available on all local authority websites and my Department’s website, here.
Last year, the BHIS and HSF supported over 400 projects, spanning our built heritage across the country – with 76,000 spent on local historic buildings in Dublin Rathdown, including the historic Dundrum Library and Clonskeagh Castle.
I am delighted to be able to continue investing in our built heritage. My officials will be contacting all Local Authorities in the coming days, advising them of scheme details for 2020. The grant schemes will be advertised on all Local Authority websites and on the Department’s website.