€924k funding for Cork heritage projects granted

A number of heritage projects in Cork are set to benefit from almost €1 million in Government funding this year.

The funding of €924,000 will be allocated to 44 projects across Cork city and county through the Historic Structures Fund (HSF)/Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) for 2024.

Projects in Cork receiving funding under the HSF scheme include Cork Public Museum (€114,000), St Mary's Church (€100,000), Sirius Arts Centre, Cobh (€100,000), and Mallow Castle House (€96,000). Overall, €610,000 went to 12 projects in Cork under the HSF scheme.

Projects to receive funding under the BHIS include Our Lady of The Rosary Church, Shanakiel (€15,000), Kiltoohig, Charleville, (€14,800), Midleton College (€11,827.50), St Annes Church, Shandon (€10,000), and the YMCA building in Cork city (€10,000). A total of €314,168.72 went to 32 projects in Cork under the BHIS.

The funding is part of an overall €9 million national investment in heritage projects announced by the Minister of State with responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD.

Welcoming the announcement was Cork North-Central TD Colm Burke, who said it was “really positive news for Cork”.

Deputy Burke said: “This funding will enable us to protect our precious built heritage and keep our magnificent buildings in use, while bringing others back into use. The social and economic benefits will be felt across our communities, providing valuable work for our traditional craft and tradespeople, as well as preserving our connection with these old landmarks.”

Announcing the awards, Minister Noonan said: “My department’s two grants support the owners and custodians of our nation's historic structures to conserve and protect them, helping to revitalise historic town centres and ensure their unique character is preserved for future generations.”

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, said: “It's wonderful to see a record number of projects being approved for funding under this year's HSF.”

Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, Kieran O’Donnell TD, also welcomed the announcement.

Minister O’Donnell said: “The HSF and the BHIS serve as great examples of what can be achieved when you have a close working relationship with the local authorities, particularly the Architectural Conservation Officers, Heritage Officers, and planning and administrative staff. These schemes provide direct financial assistance on the ground where it's needed, and I'm delighted to see so many projects being approved throughout the country this year.”

A full breakdown of the awards being granted under the 2024 HSF and BHIS can be found at gov.ie.