Funding Available to Safeguard County Cork's Historic Buildings

Cork County Council has opened applications for the Historic Structures Fund 2026, offering grants of up to €200,000 to help preserve and restore the county's protected structures and heritage buildings.

The fund, announced today by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD and Minister for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O'Sullivan TD, aims to support conservation projects that benefit communities and the public across County Cork.

Cork County Council will administer the scheme on behalf of the National Built Heritage Service, inviting owners and custodians of historic structures to apply for funding support.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley:

"Our historic buildings are more than structures, they reflect our heritage, culture and the lives of generations past. Protecting them is not just about preservation, it's about honouring the past while looking to the future. I encourage people to consider applying under the scheme if they have a building in need of care, so they can be enjoyed by future generations to come."

The Historic Structures Fund focuses on larger enhancement, refurbishment, or reuse projects involving heritage structures. Grants range from €50,000 to €200,000 and are awarded to projects that demonstrate clear community, public, or residential benefit.

Projects must be advanced through the planning process as necessary before funding can be awarded. The scheme prioritises conservation works that will make historic structures more accessible and beneficial to local communities.

Whether it's restoring a crumbling tower house in West Cork or breathing new life into a Georgian terrace in Midleton, the fund offers substantial support for those committed to preserving the county's architectural heritage.

Application forms, eligibility criteria, qualifying works and guidance documents are available on the Cork County Council website and gov.ie.

Applications must be submitted by 4:00pm on Friday, 16 January 2026. They should be addressed to 'Historic Structure Fund 2026', Conservation Office, Floor 3, Planning Department, County Hall, Cork, or sent by email to conservation@corkcoco.ie.