The first tranche of a new grant aid scheme targeted at conserving traditional farm buildings on GLAS farms has been opened. Grants will be made available for participants to carry out approved conservation works to traditional farm buildings. To be eligible for the scheme, buildings and other related structure must have architectural or vernacular heritage character and make a contribution to their setting.

Grants awarded will not exceed 75% of the cost of the works, with a maximum grant of €25,000 and a minimum grant of €4,000 being made.

The new scheme builds upon the success of the Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme which operated under REPS 4 from 2007 to 2013, and which ensured that more than 350 traditional farm buildings throughout Ireland were conserved.

“These building have been an integral part of our agricultural heritage for generations, and their contribution to the character and beauty of the Irish landscape cannot be overstated,” Minister Coveney said, adding that it was his intention that as many as possible of these buildings should be conserved and returned to practical agricultural use. “This is not about creating museum pieces, these buildings can and should play an ongoing role in the economic life of Irish farms, as well as helping to enhance the landscape, the environment and local biodiversity.”

The application form and all other documents on the new GLAS Traditional Farm Building Scheme can be downloaded from the Heritage Council website or by contacting the Heritage Council directly at Church Lane, Kilkenny. Phone +353(0)56 777 0777. Completed application forms must be returned to the Heritage Council before 5pm on 6 May 2016.