The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has announced it will award €3.5 million in funding to 28 heritage projects throughout the country this year, to help repair and protect landmark buildings.

The funding will be allocated under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) which was established by the department to "conserve, protect, and promote the use of historic buildings across our cities, towns, villages, and countryside".

According to the government, the HSF is just one of several fiscal streams available for the conservation of heritage sites in Ireland, such as the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the recently re-opened Conservation Advice Grant Scheme.

Operating on a match-funding basis, the HSF also aims to promote the investment of private capital, into the preservation and rejuvenation of our architectural heritage.

The department estimated that grantees will invest an additional €7.6 million into the projects, which will support the work of traditional craftspeople while returning landmark buildings back to their former glory.

Announcing the list of successful projects, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, said: “I am delighted to announce this award of significant funding for the repair and improvement of some of our most cherished heritage buildings.

"The works funded will secure the integrity of these sites for the enjoyment of future generations, and enhance the sustainability of local economies with great benefits for employment and the environment.

The projects awarded funding this year span the country and include:

€250,000 for essential repairs to the housing and mechanism of the iconic four-faced clock tower on St. Anne's Church, Shandon, Cork City;
€68,780 for the rejuvenation of two adjoining town-centre properties in Athlone at Church Street and Lloyd’s Lane, including provision of ‘living-over-the-shop’ accommodation;
€130,000 for repairs to roof, rainwater goods and render at Ballast House, Crescent Quay, Co Wexford, a prominent town centre building in local authority ownership.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne added: “I am delighted to see this fresh round of HSF grants, which will enhance the character and amenity of our cities, towns, villages, and countryside.

"I am particularly heartened to see disused historic buildings being given a new lease of life meeting the needs of communities across the country.”