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2018 Conservation Grant Schemes – January Application Deadline

December 21, 2017

If you own a Protected Structure then you will be aware of the legal requirements to maintain and repair these buildings as part of your duty of care to the collective built heritage of Ireland. Luckily, some State funds are available to offset the costs, and new grants have just been announced for 2018!

The Department of the Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht will offer both the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Structures at Risk Fund in early 2018. These conservation grant schemes are aimed at consolidating and repairing the external envelope and major structural elements of Protected Structures at risk of further deterioration, including country houses in private ownership. Works generally entail repairs to roofs, rainwater goods, external walls, windows, and internal structural elements. Repairs to principle historic decorative elements will also be considered by the BHIS.

The BHIS will offer minimum grants of €2,500 up to a maximum of €15,000, and will fund no more than 50% of the project costs. Due to limited funds, the Department will accept only four application from each local authority for the SAR grant, but larger grants are available, with a minimum of €15,000 up to €30,000, which may cover up to 80% of costs. Professional fees are eligible for coverage, and VAT may also be covered where it is not recoverable by the grant recipient.

Applications are due in Dublin on 24th January, and in much of the rest of the country by 31st January. Applications also require a detailed Method Statement and cost estimates, as well as information about the types and lengths of jobs that will be created. More information can be found on the Department’s website here. Works must begin in the springtime and should be complete by the end of September 2018. Some works will require a Section 5 Certificate of Exempted Development, or planning permission.

These grant schemes present a wonderful opportunity for historic homeowners, and are a principle economic driver that aid in preserving the nation’s built heritage. Contact Sunni today to discuss your project application.