Laois people who own heritage properties are urged to apply for grants of up to €200k to support their upkeep and maintenance under the recently launched Historic Structures Fund (HSF).

Some €3.5 million was allocated to 28 projects in 2025 - €200k was awarded to help repair and protect the landmark Donaghmore Workhouse Museum in south Laois.

For 2026, the fund will offer grants from €50,000 up to €200,000. 3 Funding will be provided to support work on three private properties and three publicly owned properties in the county.

The money will cover half of the eligible costs and, in exceptional cases, up to 80%. Grants may be phased over two years. Awards over two years do not need to be split 50/50.

Works must be completed and verified by the Local Authority before payment of grant funding can be sought from the Department.

The scheme aims to honour the past and safeguard the future of buildings in Laois and other counties.

Funded works must focus on the conservation of the historic fabric of important buildings, with priority given to works to protect or repair the exterior, including the roof and windows, the repointing or re-rendering of the external walls, and other similar works.

To be considered eligible for the scheme, the property must be included (or eligible for inclusion) in the Laois County Council Record of Protected Structures. Works within an Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) may also qualify.

The HSF is offered by the National Built Heritage Service (NBHS) within the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Interested applicants should contact Laois County Council's Architectural Conservation office. Applications must be submitted but no later than January 16, 2026.

Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD and the Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD launched the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) for 2026 on Thursday October 23.

Pictured: Donaghmore Workhouse Museum

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Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD welcomed the recent announcement.

“Supporting communities and those who protect and conserve the built heritage of Ireland is of the upmost importance," said Minister O'Sullivan.

"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.

"As Minister, I have visited properties around the country that have received funding and have seen the positive impact of the HSF on the character of a place and the communities that live there.

"I would encourage potential applicants to get in touch with the Architectural Conservation Officer or Heritage Officer within their Local Authority as soon as possible," he said.

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Owners of protected structures seeking funding for smaller scale works, or where there is no community or public benefit, are advised to apply to the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS).