Cork buildings named in major heritage funding
Three historic Cork buildings are set to receive major funding as part of a country wide Government initiative.
Kinsale Market House, the Old Soldier’s Home (Fermoy), and Mallow Castle House will share funding of €2 million with 15 other projects from around the country under the 2026 Historic Towns Initiative (HTI).
The HTI is a joint initiative between the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Heritage Council which aims to provide jobs through heritage-led regeneration while supporting traditional building skills.
Kinsale Market House is a focal building within Kinsale town centre. The building, which houses a museum, is officially a national monument. However, it has fallen into poor condition with essential conservation works necessary to address safety concerns and to provide for its long-term survival. The project is set to receive €200,000 for works to be carried out this year.
Mallow Castle House was awarded funding of €325,000 to restore its remaining external windows, which are at an advance state of disrepair. This will complete the external restoration and conservation of the house. Works will be undertaken between 2026 and 2027.
The proposed works the Old Soldier’s Home in Fermoy will repair the 19th century structure and restore its historic character. The building has been vacant for almost a decade and is deteriorating due to water ingress. Funding of €350,000 has been awarded to this project, with works to take place between 2026 and 2027.
Announcing this year’s recipients, TD for Cork South-West and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan emphasised the importance of the chosen projects to their respective communities.
He said: “The Historic Towns Initiative works because it provides practical financial support to keep historic buildings in use, ensuring that they retain their position at the heart of community life.
“Taken together with increased annual allocations to key funding streams like the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Historic Structures Fund, the €2m announced today demonstrates strong Government support for the protection of our built heritage and the promotion of heritage-led regeneration across our towns and villages.”
Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, Virginia Teehan added: “Heritage-led regeneration strengthens communities by fostering pride of place and sustaining traditional skills. Through the Historic Towns initiative, we are working closely with local authorities and communities to ensure our historic towns remain at the heart of Ireland’s cultural and economic life.”