Louth to receive up to €79k for heritage projects

New funding of up to €79,000 has been granted to Louth for heritage projects, under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme 2019

Further funding for projects under the Historic Structures Fund 2019 will be additional to this and will be announced after the HSF assessments have taken place, says Fine Gael TD, Fergus O'Dowd.

Commenting on today's announcement, Deputy O'Dowd said:

“This funding for heritage projects in Louth is part of an announcement by my colleague, Minister Josepha Madigan of €4.3 million for more than 500 heritage projects across the country.

“Louth will see an increase of available funding of up to 58% compared to 2018.

“Both schemes are open for applications until 31 January 2019 and I strongly encourage the authorities to apply.

“This funding will allow for the conservation and repair of protected structures across the County. These buildings and structures are so important to our heritage and identity as a county, and maintaining and repairing them is a crucial part of the regeneration of our communities.

“The funding is also very important in terms of developing our tourism offering and helping to attract visitors to Louth, with all the benefits that can bring.

“The Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Historic Structures Fund will support the owners and custodians of protected structures in every local authority area across the country in 2019 as they carry out hundreds of small-scale, labour-intensive projects to repair and conserve our historic built environment.

"The projects will also provide vital support for local jobs in conservation, traditional skills and construction,” the Fine Gael TD concluded.