Heritage Fund Opens for Cork's Historic Buildings
Shandon Bells received €250,000 in 2025.
Owners of historic structures across Cork are being encouraged to apply for grants of up to €200,000 to help preserve the county's built heritage, following the launch of the 2026 Historic Structures Fund yesterday.
The scheme, announced by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O'Sullivan TD on 23 October, will support the repair and maintenance of protected buildings across all Local Authority areas.
Cork fared well in the 2025 round of funding, with over €700,000 awarded to five projects across the county. The iconic Shandon Bells at St Anne's Church received the largest single allocation of €250,000, with much of the funding used to restore the famous four-faced clock tower that has kept watch over Cork city for generations.
The four other Cork heritage sites that benefitted from 2025 funding include the Alms Houses in Glanmire (€150,000), St. Laurence Cheshire Home in Lotamore (€114,400), Kinsale Museum (€72,404), and Sirius Arts Centre in Cobh (€130,000).
Nationally, over €3.5 million was distributed to 28 projects in 2025, demonstrating the Government's commitment to protecting Ireland's architectural heritage.
Minister Christopher O'Sullivan TD said:
"Our historic buildings and structures are a great source of pride for local communities. They are part of the fabric of our heritage and it is important that they are preserved, remaining part of life of our villages, towns and cities. The Historic Structures Fund is a vital support to the people who maintain our historic structures and prevent them from falling into disrepair or dereliction."
He added:
"Supporting communities and those who protect and conserve the built heritage of Ireland is of the upmost importance. The funding provided under the Historic Structures Fund recognises the dedication of the owners, skilled craftspeople and conservation experts who work together to ensure the continued care and conservation of these buildings."
The Minister urged potential applicants to contact their Local Authority's Architectural Conservation Officer or Heritage Officer as soon as possible to begin the application process.
The 2026 scheme will offer grants of up to €200,000 for projects with strong built heritage conservation objectives that can demonstrate clear public or community benefit. Priority is given to works that protect the outer envelope of buildings, such as roof repairs, window restoration, repointing or re-rendering of external walls, and similar conservation work.
To be eligible, properties must be included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the Record of Protected Structures of the relevant Local Authority. Structures or works within an Architectural Conservation Area may also qualify.
The Historic Structures Fund is administered by heritage professionals within each Local Authority, with grants awarded on a nationally competitive basis through the National Built Heritage Service within the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
More information about the Historic Structures Fund is available at gov.ie.
