Wicklow County Council is inviting applications for the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2027 and the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2027, both operated by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The closing date for BHIS applications is 4pm, 30th October 2026. The closing date for HSF applications is 4pm, 27th November 2026.

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) supports small-scale, labour-intensive repair and conservation projects aimed at conserving Protected Structures, buildings within Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA’s), vernacular structures including thatch and historic shopfronts. Eligible works focus on the retention, repair and conservation of historic fabric. Grants range from €2,500 to €50,000, with applicants required to contribute a minimum of 20% of total project costs. Smaller maintenance grants under €2,000 may also be considered.

The Historic Structures Fund (HSF) supports larger-scale conservation projects that address urgent repairs, enhance longevity of historic structures, and deliver public or community benefits.

Eligible structures include Protected Structures, building of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic or technical interest, historic buildings in public or community use, and vernacular structures. Grant levels range from €15,000 to €200,000, with applicants required to contribute a minimum of 50% of total projects costs.

Both BHIS and HSF applications must include a method statement prepared by a competent conservation professional, a quotation for the proposed works, and photographs detailing the existing condition of the structure. Grants from both schemes are paid retrospectively following satisfactory completion of works.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Dr. Caroline Winstanley, welcomed the opening of both schemes, and stated “The funding provided under these built heritage grant schemes plays an important role in supporting owners and communities to care for Wicklow’s historic buildings, ensuring our architectural heritage continues to enrich the county for future generations”.

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O’Gorman stated “The BHIS and HSF grant schemes provide vital support for the conservation of Wicklow’s historic buildings and traditional structures, increasing their climate resilience and helping to safeguard the architectural character of our towns, villages and rural areas”.

For full details, including application forms for both schemes, please visit www.wicklow.ie (Latest News) or contact the Wicklow County Council Planning Office via telephone on: 0404 20100 or via email on: wicklowheritage@wicklowcoco.ie.

Completed applications should be clearly marked ‘BHIS’ or ‘HSF’ and submitted by email to: wicklowheritage@wicklowcoco.ie, or by post to the: Heritage Office, Planning Section, Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Wicklow Town, A67 FW96.