Farmers who want to repair traditional farm buildings can now apply for the 2017 GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings Grant scheme.

This grant scheme is run by the Heritage Council, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and only farmers approved in the GLAS scheme are eligible to apply.

Farmers can apply for up to 75% of the cost of works and grant amounts vary from €4,000 to a maximum of €25,000.

The grant is available for the conservation of traditional farm outbuildings, including roof, walls, structural repairs, windows and doors.

It is also available for other related structures including historic yard surfaces, walls, gate pillars and gates.

The process is highly competitive and it is expected that 50-70 projects will be supported in 2017. The emphasis is on essential repairs with restoration works having a low priority.

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.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday, November 18, 2016.

Over €800,000 allocated under first tranche of traditional farm buildings scheme

Earlier this year, the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed announced that 60 projects were proposed for approval under the first tranche of the GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings Scheme.

The total associated grant-aid under this first tranche of the scheme is exceeding €800,000, he said.

Speaking following the announcement, the Minister said that this is a small but very important scheme which will make a huge contribution to preservation of our rural heritage and the enhancement of the rural landscape.