Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East, Albert Dolan, is encouraging owners and custodians of historic buildings, protected structures and thatched properties across the constituency to apply for the Government’s built heritage funding schemes, which have now opened for 2027 applications.
The schemes, announced by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD, include the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS ), the Historic Structures Fund (HSF ) and the Historic Thatch Buildings (HTB ) scheme.
The funding programmes, administered through local authorities with support from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, provide essential assistance to owners carrying out conservation and repair works on historic buildings. As well as helping to safeguard Ireland’s built heritage, the schemes support traditional craft skills and contribute to the regeneration of towns, villages and rural communities.
In 2026, more than €12 million was allocated to over 700 projects nationwide.
Deputy Dolan said Galway East is home to a rich variety of historic buildings and structures that tell the story of our communities and our heritage. From traditional cottages and thatched homes to churches, civic buildings and historic shopfronts, these buildings are an important part of our local identity.
These funding schemes provide practical support to property owners who want to protect and maintain these valuable structures. I would strongly encourage anyone who owns an eligible historic or protected building to explore the grants available and submit an application.”
The Built Heritage Investment Scheme provides grants of between €2,500 and €50,000 for conservation and repair works to protected structures and vernacular buildings of heritage significance. The Historic Structures Fund offers grants of up to €200,000 for larger-scale projects that can demonstrate strong conservation outcomes alongside a clear public or community benefit.
Deputy Dolan also highlighted the dedicated support available for owners of thatched properties.
“Thatched buildings are a unique and treasured part of Ireland’s architectural heritage. These structures require specialist skills and ongoing maintenance, and it is important that owners are supported in preserving them.
The Historic Thatch Buildings scheme not only helps to protect these distinctive properties but also supports the traditional craftspeople whose expertise is vital to keeping these skills alive for future generations.”
The schemes support a broad range of conservation works, including roof repairs, restoration of traditional windows and doors, masonry conservation, repointing and other measures aimed at protecting the historic fabric of buildings.
Deputy Dolan said he hopes to see a strong level of interest from across Galway East.
“These schemes are an important investment in our shared heritage, supporting local communities, preserving historic buildings and sustaining traditional skills. They also help ensure that many of our most significant structures can continue to play an active role in community life for years to come.
I encourage anyone who may be eligible to contact Galway County Council’s Architectural Conservation Officer or Heritage Officer and begin the application process as early as possible.”
Applications for the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and Historic Thatch Buildings scheme close on 30 October 2026, while applications for the Historic Structures Fund close on 27 November 2026.
Further information on the schemes and eligibility requirements is available through Galway County Council and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
