Date: 31 Jul 2025
Funding Available for Historic Structures under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026 and Historic Thatch Buildings (HTB) 2026
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne has announced the continued implementation of the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026 and Historic Thatch Buildings (HTB) 2026. Both the schemes are funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and administered by Local Authorities.
The purpose of the BHIS Historic Thatched Buildings Stream is to protect the heritage value of historic thatched roof buildings across Ireland. All historic thatched structures in County Donegal are eligible under this scheme and it does not need to be on the Record of Protected Structures. This year’s grant scheme will provide support for large-scale re-thatching projects up to €20,000. The funding can provide for up to 80% of the total capital costs of works.
The intention of the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026 is to assist with the repair and conservation of historic buildings and structures within Conservation Areas that are protected under the Planning and Development Acts. This scheme aims to support a significant number of projects across the country as well as the employment of skilled and experienced conservation professionals, craftspeople and tradespersons in the repair of the historic built environment. Grants of between €2,500 and €50,000 are available. The scheme also incorporates streams for vernacular buildings and historic shopfronts.
The closing date for receipt of applications for both schemes is 4pm on Friday 26th September, 2025. Circulars, information and application forms for both the Historic Thatched Buildings Stream 2026 and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026 are available on-line from the Donegal County Council website at: https://www.donegalcoco.ie/en/services/planning/architectural-conservation/grant-schemes/ Applications for both schemes should be made directly by email to architecturalconservation@donegalcoco.ie or by post to Architectural Conservation Office, Donegal County Council, Planning Services, County House, The Diamond, Lifford, F93 Y622.
