Two Offaly heritage projects set to benefit from funding of €260,000

Two Offaly heritage projects are set to benefit from €260,000 in funding under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund.

The funding was announced on Thursday, April 16, by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD.

The funding will support two archaeological sites in the county, helping their owners and custodians to safeguard them into the future while also improving public access where possible.

Offaly projects awarded funding include Newtown Fortified House, which has been allocated €130,000 in funding, and Toberdaly Castle and Folly, which has also been allocated €130,000 in funding.

First established in 2020, the Community Monuments Fund supports a wide range of initiatives to conserve, maintain, protect and promote local monuments and historic sites.

Minister Browne commended the network of heritage professionals whose stewardship make this scheme so successful each year.

“I want to acknowledge the work of the National Monuments Service of my Department for their diligence, dedication and hard work in managing the Community Monuments Fund. I would also like to recognise the Local Authorities and their heritage professionals for their immense work in administering these awards and for their overall crucial role in heritage protection and promotion.

“The €8 million I’m announcing today under this year’s Community Monuments Fund will help 104 heritage projects across the country, supporting custodians and communities and ensuring the protection of our archaeological heritage as a community asset for our collective benefit.”