Funding for Building Conservation
Funding for conservation work on buildings of architectural or historic importance is available from several sources:
The Civic Structures Conservation Grants Scheme, operated by the Department of the Environment Heritage and Local Goverment, offers grants for buildings of architectural value which are in civic ownership or occupation and generally open to the public. The maximum grant for a structure under this scheme in 2010 was €40,000. Further information can be downloaded from the DoEHLG website.
The Heritage Council's Grant Scheme can fund conservation works to buildings, under the Heritage Conservation and Management section. Applications open in September each year, for projects to be carried out in the followig calendar year. The previous Buildings at Risk Scheme is now closed.
Conservation Grants are available from Laois County Council for annual maintenance of buildings on the Record of Protected Structures .
Funding may be available from the Irish Georgian Society for buildings of architectural interest
Tax Relief is available for certain approved buildings of architectural interest, under Section 482 of the 1997 Taxes Consolidation Act. Under this scheme, the owner or occupier of an approved building (including surrounding garden) can apply for tax relief in respect of expenditure for the repair, maintenance or restoration of an approved building or garden. Under this scheme, reasonable access to buildings and gardens must be provided to the public. The scheme is administered by the Revenue Commissioners. Further information is available in Leaflet IT30 or from your local tax office.
Thatch Grants
Grants for the renewal or repair of thatch are available from the Department of the Environment. To be eligible for this grant the house must be a normal place of residence. Further information and application forms are available to download, or from the Department of the Environment, Housing Grants Section, Government Offices, Ballina, Co. Mayo, LoCall 1890 30 50 30
Thatched buildingswhich are on the Record of Protected Structures may also qualify for grants assistance under the LocalAuthority Conservation Grant SCheme (see above).
