Over 300k allocated to Cavan for built heritage projects

€546,000 has been allocated for built heritage projects in Cavan and Monaghan €355,000 will be distributed in Co Cavan while €191,000 has been earmarked for Co Monaghan.

Fianna Fáil’s Deputy Brendan Smith has welcomed the funding and highlighted its approval by the Minister for Heritage, Malcolm Noonan.

“Among the projects approved for funding is further improvement works to Bawnboy Workhouse with grant-aid of €104,000 in respect of the application submitted by Cavan County Council,” Deputy Smith added.

“Other works include reslating works, renewal of gutters and downpipes and also repair and renewal of structural roof timbers."

Meanwhile, Cllr John Paul Feeley also pointed to Bawnboy Workhouse and highlighted it's important part in the history of West Cavan. "It stands as a memorial to a very sad period for our country," he continued before adding that while maintaining buildings such as this and finding a useful purpose in a major challenge, "in this case that challenge falls to Cavan County Council as the owners".

"Annmarie Ward, our heritage officer has put a huge effort into getting this comprehensive application prepared with the assistance of outside consultants and some of the engineers in Cavan County Council.

"The funding will allow re-slating of the principal right hand wing; renewal of all guttering and downpipes; and repair of structural floor timber and repair of the first-floor level.

"The work, when completed will allow the building to be used again by the local community and will enable the local authority to facilitate groups visiting the site safely again.

The allocation of € 114,000 must be seen as a first step in funding for work on the building and I know that Annmarie Ward and her team will continue to pursue other funding opportunities for this important site.

Funding Allocation for Cavan