Donegal homeowners living in traditional and older town properties across the county are being encouraged to apply for the newly expanded Historic Structures Fund Conservation Advice Scheme.
The scheme, which offers grants of up to €5,000, is designed to help owners of traditional and historic homes access expert advice for essential conservation and renovation works.
The funding covers up to 67 per cent of the costs for specialist reports on conservation, fire safety and energy upgrades.
Donegal Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue, said he is pleased to see that traditional farmhouses are now explicitly included.
“This will be a massive boost for rural Donegal, helping families preserve our vernacular heritage while making these homes warmer and more sustainable for the future. When combined with the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant of up to €70,000, this represents a complete package of support to bring our older building stock in Donegal back to life,” the Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy said.
Previously restricted to vacant properties, the scheme has been significantly expanded to include owner-occupied homes. It also now provides specific support for traditional farmhouses and above the shop conversions.
“This grant is now open to owners who currently live in their homes, and it will also work alongside the SEAI’s Traditional Homes Pilot for energy upgrades,” Minister of State McConalogue added.
Several types of buildings can benefit from this scheme, including Protected Structures and traditional homes in Architectural Conservation Areas, as well as traditional farmhouses with no statutory protection.
Given their age and methods of construction, ‘traditional’ properties often require specialist advice or intervention when undertaking conservation, energy upgrades or fire safety alterations.
Applications for the scheme are now open and must be submitted by 5pm on May 8, 2026. Guidance documents and application forms are available on the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website.