Frankie Feighan
Ceist:218. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on the conservation advice pilot grant scheme (details supplied). [9766/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 29 February 2024
Ceisteanna (218)
Freagraí scríofa
The Conservation Advice Scheme for Vacant Traditional Farmhouses was a pilot scheme operated by my Department in 2023. It supported the provision of expert advice to private owners of vacant farmhouses who were availing of or considering applying for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.
Applications were received from 70 owners for the 2023 pilot scheme, with 34 approved for funding. All 34 approved projects were completed and drew down funding. My Department is engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform in relation to proposals to operate the scheme again in 2024.
The scheme is designed to help owners of traditionally constructed buildings to understand the heritage value of these structures and the special requirements of historic building fabric. The ultimate intent is to prompt owners to make more effective and appropriate investments in their buildings, whether these investments are self-financed or funded through the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant or other government schemes.
My Department used the reports funded under the scheme only to confirm they were of an adequate standard to permit drawdown of the grant. The professional advice contained within the plans is for the use of the owner when undertaking work to their own property.
In addition to the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, owners may be able to fund works through the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) or the Historic Structures Fund (HSF). These schemes for the support of historic buildings are funded by my Department but administered in the main by the Local Authorities. Owners interested in availing of this funding should contact the Architectural Conservation Officer or Heritage Officer in their Local Authority, who will be best placed to advise.