Parishes encouraged to apply now for 2027 heritage grants

Parishes across Ireland are being encouraged to apply for heritage grants of up to €200,000 to help repair and preserve historic churches and other protected buildings.

Parishes across the Republic of Ireland are being encouraged to look at heritage grants available to help repair and preserve historic churches, presbyteries and parish halls.

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) offers grants of up to €50,000, covering up to 80% of eligible project costs.  Applications are assessed by local authorities, with priority given to projects based on factors such as heritage value, urgency, value for money and the quality of the proposed conservation plan.

Larger projects may qualify for the Historic Structures Fund (HSF), which provides grants of up to €200,000.  These applications are considered by a national panel and are generally aimed at buildings of regional or national importance, prominent and well-used buildings, or major conservation projects.  The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage can help parishes establish the heritage significance of their buildings.

Recent projects supported through the fund include Saint Patrick’s Church in Newport, Co Mayo, which received €130,000 for repairs to the sandstone masonry of its bell tower.  Saint Macartan’s Cathedral in Monaghan (see picture) received the maximum €200,000 towards ongoing conservation work on its spire, pinnacles, tower and south transept.

Funding can be used for a wide range of repair and restoration work, including roofs, masonry, pointing, rainwater systems, stained glass, sash windows, mosaics and tiling.

Parishes considering an application are advised to speak to their local conservation or heritage officer before applying.  A list of County Heritage Officers is available from the Heritage Council.

Applications for projects planned for 2027 close at the end of October 2026, with successful grants due to be announced in January 2027.

More information on the schemes and how to apply is available here.