Government Announces €708,000 to Restore Cork's Historic Buildings

• Minister of State Christopher O'Sullivan has announced over €700,000 in funding to help restore and protect Cork's built heritage, including support for 36 conservation projects across the city and county.

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026 will distribute €665,719 to repair historic structures ranging from traditional homes to landmark public buildings, with an additional €42,753 allocated to preserve four thatched properties.

The scheme supports property owners in conserving historic buildings and streetscapes whilst keeping traditional building skills alive. This year's grants will fund essential restoration work including roof and wall repairs, windows, doors, and interior conservation.

Announcing the funding today, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O'Sullivan TDsaid:

"Built heritage in Ireland isn't just about great houses and magnificent public structures. Often, the architectural jewel in our towns and villages is a historic building where people meet, live or work. As Minister for Heritage, I'm proud to be able to support the owners and custodians of these unique properties to protect them, restore them and make them more comfortable through initiatives like the Built Heritage Investment Scheme."

The minister added that Cork's substantial allocation would help communities and individuals keep historic buildings alive and prevent them from falling into ruin.

Among the Cork projects receiving funding are St Mary's Collegiate Church in Youghal, Ireland's oldest church still in continuous use, which will receive €37,500 for windows and doors. The Church of The Ascension in Timoleague will get €37,500 for interior works, whilst St Patrick's Cathedral in Skibbereen receives the same amount for external wall repairs.

Cork City Council projects include €20,000 for the National Sculpture Factory on Albert Road and €20,000 for roof repairs to the Old Cork Waterworks Experience on Lee Road. Historic properties from Creagh Castle House near Doneraile to the Devonshire Arms Hotel in Youghal will benefit from the scheme.

The four thatched buildings receiving support include properties in Whitegate and Mitchelstown, with grants ranging from €6,753 to €12,000 for roof and wall conservation.

Nationally, €8.1 million has been awarded through the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, with almost €1.1 million earmarked specifically for thatched buildings. An estimated €35 million of private funds will be committed by property owners, bringing total investment in Ireland's built heritage to over €43 million.

The funding is provided by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage's National Built Heritage Service and administered through local authorities.

Subject to funding, both schemes will reopen to new applications in July for projects scheduled for completion in 2027.