Over €120k for Louth archaeological monuments

Three Louth monuments are set to receive €120,454 through the 2024 Community Monuments Fund to help owners and custodians of archaeological monuments to safeguard them into the future.

The three Louth projects that will receive funding are:

• Bellew's Castle - €72,954
• Cappocksgate in Ardee - €17,500
• Drogheda Town Walls - €30,000

The funding is part of  €7.4 million which will be awarded nationally to 140 projects around the country

First established in 2020, the Community Monuments Fund (CMF) aims to conserve, maintain, protect and promote local monuments and historic sites. 

Funding is available to allow conservation works to be carried out on monuments that are deemed to be significant and in need of urgent support. 

The aim is to encourage access to monuments and improve their presentation and also to build their resilience to help them withstand the effects of climate change.

The CMF supports essential repairs and capital works for the conservation of archaeological monuments and also the development of Conservation Management Plans to identify measures that may be needed to conserve monuments. Grants are also available to enhance public access infrastructure and interpretation at archaeological monuments.

Speaking today, Minister of State Malcolm Noonan said:

“Since its inception in 2020, this fund has become a lifeline for the protection of Ireland’s irreplaceable archaeological heritage by revitalising hundreds of historic monuments in cities, towns, villages and rural communities across all 31 Local Authorities. 

“Through this, it is enabling valuable investment in the wider heritage sector, creating thousands of hours of employment for specialist craftspeople and traditional skills practitioners, as well as supporting the achievement of national commitments under Heritage Ireland 2030 and the Climate Adaptation Plan for Built and Archaeological Heritage.”

Cathaoirleach of the Ardee Municipal, Cllr Dolores Minogue, welcomed the announcement of a €17,500 grant awarded to Cappocksgate through the Community Monuments Fund. 

She said that these funds are highly valued, and she eagerly anticipates the improvement works that will enhance the preservation of this historic town wall. 

Recognising its significance as a pivotal part of the town's history, she emphasised that its restoration will serve as a tangible reminder of Ardee's rich heritage.