FARMERS in Donegal can now apply for funding to conserve traditional farm buildings through the Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme, run by The Heritage Council with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
The scheme helps preserve buildings that contribute to the rural landscape and have heritage value, keeping them in use for agriculture.
Grants cover repairs to roofs, walls, windows, doors and related structures such as historic yard surfaces, walls and farm gates.
“Our traditional farm buildings lend character to our rural landscape and farmers play an important role in maintaining them and keeping them in use,” said Joseph Gallagher, County Donegal Heritage Officer.
The scheme allows traditional farm buildings to remain relevant to agricultural activities, supports farmers to carry out repairs themselves and provides employment for local contractors and craftspeople.
Applications are online only and close at 5pm on Monday, May 18. Farmers are encouraged to attend a free information webinar at 12 noon on Friday, April 17.
Grants cover up to 75 per cent of project costs, with awards ranging from €4,000 to €30,000.
Applicants must own the building or have the owner’s permission, and be active in schemes such as ACRES or the Organic Farming Scheme. The Heritage Council expects about 40 projects to be supported nationwide in 2026.
The scheme won the European Heritage Award in 2024 for its contribution to preserving Ireland’s agricultural heritage.
For details and applications, visit www.heritagecouncil.ie or call (086) 025 9202. Advice to applicants is also available from the County Donegal Heritage Office, Donegal County Council.