Heritage Council grant scheme open

The Heritage Council, which last year grant-aided two projects in Westmeath, is now accepting applications from community groups and not for profit non-governmental organisations for its Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2024.

A range of project types are eligible including surveys of buildings, monuments, habitats, collections or objects; conservation works; accessibility projects that make heritage activities more accessible; projects that help people engage more with their heritage (interactive maps, videos, virtual exhibitions, podcasts, websites).

Also included are the purchase of specialised equipment; projects that address the heritage of minority group; training in traditional skills and crafts and ‘citizen science’ projects on environmental conservation. Last year, the Follies Trust received funding to conserve the Malone Mausoleum at Kilbixy near Ballynacargy and the Athlone Gun Battery Heritage Group was funded to allow masonry repairs of the Athlone gun battery and restoration of the facing masonry of the fortification. The minimum grant that can be requested through the scheme is €500. The maximum is €25,000.

The closing date for applications is Monday, March 25 at 5pm. Funded projects must be completed by 15 November 2024. The Heritage Council host a Zoom information webinar on the scheme at noon on March 4.