The Irish Government has announced €4.42 million in funding for 40 projects under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2026 to support the repair, conservation, and protection of landmark and heritage buildings across the country. The announcement was made by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and the Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD. The funding is aimed at safeguarding Ireland’s architectural heritage while ensuring that historic buildings remain in use and continue to contribute to local communities and economies.
Among the key projects receiving support is €200,000 for repairs to the Ambassador Theatre on Parnell Street in Dublin, a significant cultural venue in the city’s historic Georgian area. The Wonderful Barn in Leixlip, County Kildare, will receive over €180,000 for restoration works, while Áras na nGael, the historic Galway Arts Centre, has been allocated €170,000 to support conservation of its Georgian roof structure. In County Kerry, €115,000 has been awarded for roof repairs to the historic Dingle Courthouse.
The Ministers highlighted that the funding reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to preserving Ireland’s built heritage, supporting skilled conservation work, and generating employment in traditional crafts and construction trades. They also emphasized the importance of keeping historic buildings active and integrated within communities, ensuring they do not fall into disrepair but are instead restored and reused.
The Historic Structures Fund operates alongside other heritage schemes and works on a match-funding basis, requiring owners and custodians to contribute to project costs. The initiative aims not only to conserve historic buildings but also to promote sustainable use of heritage assets across Ireland’s cities, towns, villages, and rural areas.
