The Government of Ireland has announced a significant investment in the country’s built heritage, with €8.1 million allocated under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026. The funding, announced on 23 January 2026 by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD, will support 696 projects nationwide to repair, restore, and protect historic buildings, streetscapes, and traditional craftsmanship for future generations.
The scheme aims to preserve Ireland’s architectural legacy, from landmark public buildings to traditional homes, across urban and rural communities. A portion of the funding, €1.1 million, has been specifically earmarked for the restoration of thatched buildings, ensuring the survival of this iconic feature of Irish heritage. BHIS grants will also help sustain and develop specialist skills among conservation professionals and craftspeople working on historic structures.
Projects funded this year include repairs to St Anne’s Church in Dublin, reinstatement of timber windows at Kylemore Abbey in Connemara, conservation works at St Mary’s Collegiate Church in Youghal, Marsh’s Library in Dublin, and thatching for Elphin Windmill in Roscommon. Other supported projects include interior works at Dunsink Observatory in Castleknock, highlighting the scheme’s broad focus across different types of heritage properties.
Minister Browne emphasized that the BHIS funding is part of a wider effort to preserve Ireland’s architectural heritage while maximizing the use of existing building stock and preventing dereliction. He noted that schemes such as the Historic Structures Fund, Community Monuments Fund, and the Living City Initiative complement BHIS in ensuring historic buildings continue to serve communities and support sustainable development.
Minister O’Sullivan highlighted the importance of protecting not only prominent public buildings but also the historic structures that form the social and cultural fabric of towns and villages. He praised the scheme for supporting property owners in maintaining, restoring, and modernizing these buildings while also safeguarding the livelihoods of traditional craftspeople.
The €8.1 million in public funding is expected to be complemented by an estimated €35 million in private investment by owners and custodians, reflecting a collaborative effort between the State, communities, and individuals to preserve Ireland’s heritage. Grants under BHIS range from €2,500 to €50,000, with streams available for vernacular buildings, historic shopfronts, and routine maintenance, including a dedicated micro-grant stream.
Both the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Historic Thatched Buildings Scheme are expected to re-open for new applications in July 2026 for projects scheduled for completion in 2027, continuing Ireland’s commitment to protecting and enhancing its historic built environment.
