Historic churches, castles, and cottages in Mayo to benefit from restoration funding
Eight historic buildings in Mayo have secured Government funding for essential conservation works under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS).
A total of €141,529 has been allocated to support the protection and upkeep of important heritage buildings across the county.
This funding forms part of a broader €8.1 million national program, supporting 696 heritage initiatives across Ireland.
In Mayo, buildings in Castlebar, Ballina, Kiltimagh, and Mulranny are set to benefit from the scheme.
In Castlebar, The Christian Fellowship Church on Rock Square, The Mall, has been allocated €25,250 for essential maintenance and rainwater disposal.
Built in 1785, the chapel recently underwent repairs, including roof refurbishment and window restoration. Upcoming works will also include cleaning limestone features, repainting woodwork to match the building’s original character, and painting the interior and exterior walls.
Christ Church on Church Street will receive €8,400 for window repairs. Built between 1826 and 1829 on the site of an earlier church dating back to 1739, it is one of Castlebar’s oldest surviving buildings.
Several projects in Ballina have also been approved for funding. Belleek Castle in Garrankeel has been awarded €25,250 for roof and interior works.
Built between 1825 and 1831, the castle served as a family home for the majority of its life, but its origins date back to a 13th-century tower house on the banks of the River Moy. Today, Belleek Castle is a popular venue for weddings and events, as well as a tourist attraction.
The Sisters of Mercy Convent on McDermott Street will receive €24,250 for roof, window, and interior repairs. Built in 1867, the convent has remained vacant since closing in 2008. Work is underway to restore 27 traditional wooden sash windows by the end of the month.
Meanwhile, the former Church of Ireland School on Kevin Barry Street has been awarded €11,043 for window repairs, as has house number nine on Pearse Street.
In Kiltimagh, the Church of the Holy Family on Chapel Street will receive €25,250 for rainwater disposal and window repairs. Built in 1888, the church recently underwent an extensive two-year restoration and conservation works.
Finally, in Mulranny, a thatched cottage has been awarded €11,043 to support essential roof works.
Announcing the funding for today, Minister Dillon said the announcement reflects a 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.
“With €8.1 million available this year, the Built Heritage Investment Scheme is helping to repair, restore and protect historic structures across Ireland, from traditional homes to landmark public buildings,” he said.
Minister Dillon also acknowledged the work of Mayo County Council’s Heritage and Conservation teams in supporting applicants and guiding projects through the assessment process.
This article has been funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.