'Keeping history alive' - over €388,000 for historic buildings in Tipperary

Tipperary's Dáil representatives are today welcoming €8-million investment to protect Ireland’s built heritage, with over €387,000 allocated to Tipperary.

Almost 700 historic buildings across Ireland will benefit from over €8 million in conservation funding under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026, with significant funding allocated to County Tipperary.

The announcement was made today (23 January 2026) by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, alongside the Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD.

In total, 696 projects nationwide will receive funding aimed at restoring, repairing and protecting Ireland’s historic built environment for future generations.

Under the scheme, €8.1 million in grant funding has been awarded nationally, including almost €1.1 million specifically earmarked for thatched buildings, recognising their unique cultural and architectural importance.

County Tipperary has been awarded €366,285 under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, along with an additional €21,376.70 under the dedicated thatch funding stream, providing vital support for the conservation of local historic structures.

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Michael Lowry TD has warmly welcomed the announcement:

“This is a very welcome and significant investment in our built heritage, both nationally and here in County Tipperary. These historic buildings are an integral part of our identity, our communities and our tourism offering. The funding announced today will help ensure that these structures are protected, maintained and enhanced for future generations,” he said.

“I am particularly pleased to see strong support for traditional buildings, including thatched properties, which require specialised skills and ongoing care. The allocation to Tipperary will assist owners and custodians in carrying out essential conservation works while also sustaining traditional craft skills and local employment,” Deputy Lowry said.

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme, funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage through the National Built Heritage Service and administered by Local Authorities, supports works to a wide range of historic structures – from traditional homes to landmark public buildings in cities, towns, villages and rural areas.

Among the projects funded nationally this year are works to churches, libraries, observatories, windmills and historic houses, reflecting the breadth and diversity of Ireland’s architectural heritage.

In addition to the public funding provided under BHIS, it is estimated that approximately €35 million in private investment will be contributed by property owners and custodians, highlighting the strong partnership between the State, communities and individuals in safeguarding Ireland’s heritage.

“This scheme not only protects our past, but also supports sustainable development by encouraging the reuse of existing buildings and preventing dereliction and vacancy. I will continue to support initiatives that strengthen our communities and preserve the unique character of Tipperary and Ireland as a whole,” Deputy Lowry said.

Fianna Fáil TD for North Tipperary and Northwest Kilkenny, Deputy Ryan O’Meara, also warmly welcomed the announcement of €388,661 in funding for Tipperary under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, following today’s significant national announcement.

The funding will provide vital conservation support, including the restoration and protection of historic buildings across the county, ensuring that important heritage structures can be safeguarded for future generations.

“This funding is about far more than bricks and mortar. It represents an investment in our local history and in the culture and character of our communities. These historic buildings tell the story of our area, and this support will ensure that story is preserved for future generations.”

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With €8.1 million being made available nationally in 2026, the scheme will help property owners to conserve and enhance historic buildings and streetscapes, while also supporting the preservation and development of traditional building skills.

Grants will be used to repair, restore, and protect historic structures across Ireland’s cities, towns, villages, and rural areas.

Deputy O’Meara said the scheme would also play an important role in tackling vacancy and supporting communities:

“This funding will ensure that the architectural legacy of past generations continues to survive in our towns, villages, and rural communities. Alongside initiatives such as the revised Living City Initiative and the improved and expanded Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, it will help to maximise the use of existing building stock and prevent vacancy, dereliction, and underuse.”

The Deputy also highlighted that €1.1 million has been specifically allocated in 2026 to support the repair and conservation of traditional thatched buildings nationwide.

“Built heritage is not just about landmark buildings. Often, the heart of a community is a historic place where people live, work, or meet. I would like to thank my colleague, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, and the Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, for their continued commitment to protecting Ireland’s built heritage,” he said.

The full list of approved projects is available on the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website.