Applications are now open for Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2025 and Historic Thatch Buildings Grant 2025
The Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2025.
The primary focus of the HSF is to assist with the conservation and enhancement of historic structures and buildings for the broader benefit of communities and the public .Grants are from €50,000 up to €200,000 and focus on larger enhancement, refurbishment or reuse projects involving heritage structures, where:
- A clear community or public benefit has been demonstrated, or
- A clear residential benefit has been demonstrated (such projects must be advanced through the planning process as necessary)
The total value of all public funding provided for individual projects is 50% of eligible costs. In exceptional circumstances a higher percentage may be sought, subject to a max of 80%.
Eligible applications will be assessed for selection under the following criteria:
- Significance of the structure
- Efficacy of the grant in achieving the aims of the Historic Structures Fund
- Quality of the methodology and technical merit of the works proposed
- Contribution of the proposed works to keeping the structure in use, or bringing it back into use
- Broader public or community benefit of the project
The Department encourages project promoters to incorporate a traditional skills training element in the project. There is a requirement for a comprehensive and sound methodology to accompany the application and that in the event of a successful application, appropriately qualified conservation professional shall oversee the works.
The Historic Thatch Buildings Grant 2025
The purpose of the scheme is to protect the heritage value of historic thatched roof buildings across Ireland, including dwellings and other structures. An application under the BHIS Historic Thatched Buildings Stream does not preclude a separate application under the Historic Structures Fund or the main stream of the BHIS, but only one grant can be availed of per structure. A Method Statement or description of the proposed works, drawn up in consultation with an experienced thatcher or other relevant building professional, is required.
The Conservation Section, Waterford City and County Council will administer both schemes on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Full details of the schemes, including the application forms, the applicant checklists and the criteria are available on our Grants page.
Completed application forms to be submitted by email only to Planning@waterfordcouncil.ie by Friday 17th January 2025.
