€141,000 to restore eight historic buildings in Mayo
MINISTER of State Alan Dillon has welcomed the allocation of €141,529 to Mayo County Council under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2026, supporting conservation works on a range of important historic buildings across the county.
The following eight Mayo projects have been approved under the scheme:
Kiltimagh: Church of the Holy Family (pictured above), Chapel Street (rainwater disposal, window repairs) - €25,250.
Castlebar: Christian Fellowship Church, Rock Square, The Mall (rainwater disposal, essential maintenance works) - €25,250; Christ Church, Church Street (window repairs) - €8,400.
Ballina: Belleek Castle, Garrankeel (roof and interior works) - €25,250; Sisters of Mercy Convent, McDermott Street (roofs, interiors, windows) - €24,250; No. 9 Pearse Street (window repairs) - €11,043; former Church of Ireland School, Kevin Barry Street (window repairs) - €11,043.
Mulranny: Thatched Cottage (roof works) - €11,043.
The funding is part of a national €8.1 million investment, which will support 696 heritage projects, assisting owners and custodians of protected structures with essential repairs, safeguarding the architectural heritage that shapes Ireland’s towns, villages and rural landscapes.
Minister Dillon said the announcement reflects the commitment to protecting Mayo’s built heritage while supporting local employment in traditional building skills.
“Heritage buildings are anchors in our communities. This investment strengthens our towns, supports local craftspeople, and preserves the character of Mayo’s historic buildings. I’m delighted to see such a strong spread of funding across Castlebar, Ballina, Kiltimagh and Mulranny,” he said.
“These grants not only conserve our heritage but also sustain and develop traditional building skills that are vital to our cultural identity.”
Minister Dillon acknowledged the work of Mayo County Council’s heritage and conservation teams in supporting applicants and guiding projects through the assessment process.
The Built Heritage Investment Scheme is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s National Built Heritage Service and administered by local authorities.