Funding for Cork’s historic buildings

Owners of historic structures are being urged to apply for a Government led maintenance and preservation fund for the coming year.

The Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2026 will support the repair, maintenance, and rejuvenation of historic structures in Cork. The fund provided over €3.5m to 28 projects in Ireland in 2025, with €700,000 of that going to projects in Cork. Included among these was Shandon Bells at St Anne’s Church, which received €250,000 with a large proportion used to restore the renowned four-faced clock tower.

Other Cork projects to receive funding in 2025 were Alms Houses, Glanmire (€150,000); St Laurence Cheshire Home, Lotamore (€114,400); Kinsale Museum (€72,404); and Sirius Arts Centre, Cobh (€130,000).

To be considered eligible for the 2026 scheme, a property must be included (or eligible for inclusion) in the Record of Protected Structures of the relevant local authority. Structures or works within an Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) may also be eligible. HSF funding is administered by heritage professionals within each local authority, with grants awarded on a nationally competitive basis.

TD for Cork South West and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan said the fund is a “vital support” for the maintenance of historic structures. Our historic buildings and structures are a great source of pride for local communities. They are part of the fabric of our heritage, and it is important that they are preserved, remaining part of life of our villages, towns, and cities.

“The funding provided under the HSF recognises the dedication of the owners, skilled craftspeople, and conservation experts who work together to ensure the continued care and conservation of these buildings,” he added.

For more on the HSF, visit housing.gov.ie.