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Council invites applications for Community Monuments Fund 2026

Louth County Council, in conjunction with Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, is inviting owners and custodians of archaeological monuments in Louth to apply for the Community Monuments Fund 2026.

The Community Monuments Fund invests in archaeological heritage and helps owners and custodians of archaeological monuments to safeguard them into the future for the benefit of communities and the public.

The grant scheme offers support for the conservation, maintenance, protection, and presentation of archaeological monuments under three funding streams:

  • Stream 1 for essential repairs and capital works for the conservation and repair of archaeological monuments.
  • Stream 2 for the development of Conservation Management Plans/Reports aimed at identifying measures for the conservation of archaeological monuments and improving public access.
  • Stream 3 for enhancement of access infrastructure and interpretation (including virtual/online) at archaeological monuments.

 

Encouraging applications Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council said:

"Our archaeological heritage is a vital part of Louth’s identity and history. The Community Monuments Fund provides an invaluable opportunity to protect and celebrate these monuments for future generations. I encourage all owners and custodians to apply and play their part in preserving these treasures for our communities and visitors alike."

Funding of over €300,000.00 was allocated to conservation projects in Louth under the 2025 funding call. This facilitated conservation works at three historic tower house castles; Bellew’s Castle, Dundalk; Glaspistol Tower House, Clogherhead; and Taaffe’s Castle, Carlingford; and funded a study on Hatch’s Castle, Ardee.

The deadline for applications for the Community Monuments Fund 2026 is 4pm on Friday, 30th January 2026. Owners and custodians of archaeological monuments interested in applying for funding are encouraged to visit www.louthcoco.ie or email heritage@louthcoco.ie for further information.

About the Community Monuments Fund 2026

Community Monuments Fund 2026 (CMF 2026) is operated by the National Monuments Service of Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage and administered locally by Local Authorities. Total funding available nationally for projects under CMF 2026 is €7,500,000.