Funding opens in Laois for conservation of old buildings

Applications have opened in Laois for the 2023 round of grants towards conservation of historic buildings.

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme is designed to support owners and custodians in caring for the built heritage in Laois, and ensuring that it is protected into the future.

Buildings may be on the Laois Record of Protected Structures, or they can be "vernacular structures", generally modest buildings constructed using traditional methods and simple materials that were local to the area or readily available, such as thatched cottages.

The closing date for applications is January 31.

The Historic Structures Fund focuses on conservation and enhancement of historic structures and buildings for the benefit of communities and the public. The grant requires that an appropriately qualified conservation professional must oversee the works.

Stream 1 gives grants between €15,000 and €50,000. They can be for essential repairs and small capital works for the
refurbishment and conservation of historic structures to safeguard the structure and keep it in use, to a maximum of 80% of the costs. 

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There is also a grant towards historic shopfronts, from €15,000 to €50,000. This is for essential repairs and small capital works for the refurbishment and conservation of historic shop facades, windows, signage and other associated details to safeguard them and keep them in use.

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A bigger grant of €50,000 to €200,000 and upwards, is possible, and may be phased over two years. It is for larger enhancement or significant refurbishment projects involving historic structures, where a clear benefit to the community and the public has been demonstrated. It will cover up to 50% of eligible costs or in exceptional circumstances up to 80%.

The grants for vernacular structures range from €5,000 to €10,000, a maximum of 80% of the job cost.

Application forms and guidance booklets are on Laois County Council's website.