The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has confirmed the opening of three built heritage schemes, including the scheme for Historic Thatched Buildings (HTB).

The other two schemes are the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) and the Historic Structures Fund (HSF).

These schemes are funded by the department through the National Built Heritage Service (NBHS), and are operated through local authorities.

The department said the schemes represent the state's main means of supporting owners of historic buildings and protected structures to repair and conserve buildings for future generations.

As well as conserving and enhancing historic buildings and streetscapes, the schemes also help to preserve and develop traditional building skills, the department said.

This year, over €12 million in funding was allocated to more than 700 projects.

According to the department, the schemes will support the repair, maintenance, and rejuvenation of historic structures across the country, "honouring their past and safeguarding them into the future".

Last year, over €600,000 in funding was allocated to a funding stream for thatched buildings across Ireland.

The Historic Thatched Buildings (HTB) measure is designed to provide specific funding for works on thatched buildings, given the unique circumstances faced by owners of historic structures with thatched roofs.

This scheme is run in conjunction with the BHIS, and the additional funding is allocated to local authorities on a pro rata basis relative to the number of thatched structures on their Records of Protected Structures.

The closing date for applications for the BHIS and the HTB measures is October 30, and for the HSF the closing date is November 27.

Successful projects will be announced in early 2027.

Commenting on the HTB scheme, Minister of State for nature Christopher O'Sullivan said: "Thatched buildings are an important part of the fabric of our built heritage, as is the work in maintaining them.

"These schemes provide valuable work for the many traditional craft and tradespeople across Ireland, helping to keep unique skills alive," he added.