Built Heritage Investment Scheme

Local authorities may provide financial support for the repair and conservation of protected structures and buildings in an architectural conservation area. A protected structure is one with architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest.

Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme 2026 is now open for applications. 

Applicants are advised to engage with the Carlow Heritage Officer to discuss the proposed project in advance of submitting their application.

Applicants are advised to read the Circular and the Applicants Guidance Booklet as they contain all the necessary information about the scheme. Applicants should familiarise themselves with the Qualyfing and Non-Qualifying Works relating to the grant applications.

A useful Guidance Form A is available to download and should be read before completing your application Form A. All applications must be accompanied by a suitable Method Statement and costings.

Applications to BHIS 2026 2(to be completed on BHIS 2026 Form A) should be submitted to esullivan@carlowcoco.iebefore 5:30pm on 26 September 2025 or by post to Dr. Eoin Sullivan, Heritage Office, Carlow County Library, Tullow Street, Carlow R93 K126 to arrive before the stated deadline. 

Queries about the scheme and proposed projects – contact Eoin Sullivan (Carlow Heritage Officer) by email - esullivan@carlwococo.ie

The Announcement of Approvals will take place in January 2026 and successful applicants will be informed by postal grant offer from Carlow County Council shortly after the Departmental announcements of funding in January 2026.

In 2026:                                                                                                                                       

  • Grants under the 2026 BHIS may be awarded at a level of up to €50,000
  • Matched funding requirements for 2026 BHIS have been increased up to a maximum of 80% grant support per project, on a project-by-project basis.
  • Historic Shopfronts, in the manner previously funded under HSF Stream 1, have been included as qualifying works under the revised BHIS, with a max. grant of €50,000.
  • Vernacular Buildings, in the manner previously funded under HSF Stream 1, have been included as qualifying works under the revised BHIS, with a max. grant of €30,000.

The HSF (Historic Structures Fund) will be advertised later this year, on the traditional timeframe. However, this will be altered so it reflects projects that would previously have been eligible for Stream 2 funding (i.e. between €50,000 and €200,000).

Historic Thatch Buildings (HTB) 2026 is now open for applications.

Owners of properties with Historic Thatch Buildings can apply for funding grant funding for works to be completed in 2026. The full grant details are outlined in the HTB 2026 Circular.

Applications for HTB 2026 (to be completed on HTB  2026 Form A) should be submitted to esullivan@carlowcoco.ie before 5:30pm on 26 September 2025 or by post to Dr. Eoin Sullivan, Heritage Office, Carlow County Library, Tullow Street, Carlow R93 K126 to arrive before the stated deadline.