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Minister of State for Nature, Heritage, and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, has announced the recipients of the 2025 Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) and Historic Thatch Building (HTB) 2025 grants. These schemes provide essential funding to safeguard Ireland’s protected structures and historic buildings, ensuring their conservation into the future

In Waterford, €273,729 has been allocated to 28 projects under the BHIS scheme, supporting vital works such as the repair of historic roofs, walls, and chimneys, as well as the restoration of historic joinery in private and public buildings throughout the city and county.  An additional €41,060 has been ring-fenced specifically for three thatch house projects, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to preserving this form of traditional building heritage.

Speaking on the funding announcement, Minister O’Sullivan said:

“In keeping with the commitment outlined in our newly ratified Programme for Government to cherish and protect our heritage as a vital national asset, I am pleased to announce today the projects which will receive funding under this year’s Built Heritage Investment Scheme. Ireland’s built heritage is a national asset which enriches our countryside, villages, towns, and cities. In maintaining and caring for our historic buildings, owners and custodians perform a valuable public service, and I am delighted to be able to support their efforts.

“Alongside related initiatives such as the Historic Structures Fund, Community Monuments Fund, and the THRIVE scheme, this vital funding will help to ensure the survival of Ireland’s shared architectural inheritance for future generations.”

Waterford’s Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, John Cummins TD, also welcomed the announcement, stating:

“This funding from Government will greatly assist with protecting historic buildings which contribute to a community’s sense of identity, often forming the heart of a city or town. This year’s grants will be used to repair, restore, and protect historic structures from modest traditional homes to landmark public buildings. Guided and supported by Architectural Conservation Officers and other local authority staff around the country, these projects will greatly enhance the vitality and amenity of our streetscapes.”

Local conservation groups and building owners have also welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of financial assistance in tackling the high costs associated with historic building maintenance. By funding essential works such as roof stabilisation, joinery repairs, and masonry conservation, these grants will ensure that Waterford’s architectural legacy remains intact.

Subject to funding, both the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Historic Thatched Buildings Scheme will be open to new applications this July for projects for completion next year.