The application period for a new scheme which provides 75% grant aid to refurbish old farm buildings is set to close tomorrow evening.
Farmers intending on applying for the scheme must return completed application forms to the Heritage Council before 5pm on Friday, May 6.
The scheme was announced by the Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney in early April to ensure that small traditional farm buildings and other structures are restored and conserved for renewed practical agricultural use.
Under the scheme, successful applicants will be awarded grants that 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 scheme is open to farmers participating in GLAS and it is jointly funded by the Department of Agriculture and the European Union. Funds will be administered by the Heritage Council.
What is covered?
Grants will be made available to GLAS participants to carry out approved conservation works to traditional farm buildings, including roofs, outside surface of walls, windows and doors.
Grants will also be available for other related structures such as historic yard surfaces and landscape features around the farmyard such as walls, gate pillars and gates.
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.
How to apply?
The application form and all other documents on the new GLAS Traditional Farm Building Scheme can be downloaded from the Heritage Council website www.heritagecouncil.ie or by contacting the Heritage Council directly at Church Lane, Kilkenny. Phone +353(0)56 777 0777.
Missed the deadline?
For farmers who miss this year’s deadline, the Department says that further applications will be invited at regular intervals throughout the programming period, which is set to end in December 2020.