Over €100,000 awarded towards major heritage investment in Leitrim town

Significant investment has been secured for key heritage sites in Manorhamilton under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund.

The Community Monuments Fund has received over €8 million in funding, with over €125,000 of that amount allocated to historic sites in Manorhamilton.

€100,000 has been allocated to The Old Church of Ireland in the town, while a further €25,614.75 has been awarded to Manorhamilton Castle.

The funding package, announced by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD, will support 104 heritage projects nationwide.

This year’s allocation represents an increase of almost €500,000 on 2025 funding levels.

Local councillor James Gilmartin has welcomed the announcement of the Community Monuments Fund and the significant funding secured for Manorhamilton.

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Cllr James Gilmartin has warmly welcomed the announcement of over €8 million in funding under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund, with significant investment secured for key heritage sites in Manorhamilton.

“This is a very positive investment in the heritage of Manorhamilton and the wider North Leitrim area,” said Cllr Gilmartin. “The allocation of €100,000 for The Old Church of Ireland will play a crucial role in preserving a site of deep historical and community significance, while the €25,000 for Manorhamilton Castle will support ongoing efforts to protect and enhance one of our town’s most iconic landmarks,” he added.

Cllr Gilmartin commented that the monuments are not only important reminders of the past but “also valuable community assets that contribute to local identity, tourism, and education,” adding that the funding will help ensure they are safeguarded for future generations while improving accessibility and presentation for the public.

Cllr Gilmartin also acknowledged the work of local groups and heritage professionals. “I want to commend the dedication of local custodians, volunteers, and heritage professionals whose ongoing efforts make projects like these possible.

“Their commitment ensures that our shared history is protected and brought to life for the wider community.”

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The Community Monuments Fund, established in 2020, supports the conservation, maintenance, and promotion of archaeological monuments across Ireland.

It also plays an important role in building resilience against climate change and enabling greater public access to heritage sites.

“This continued investment at national level demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting Ireland’s archaeological heritage. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have in Manorhamilton in the months ahead,” concluded Cllr Gilmartin.

Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan has also welcomed the funding. “This funding ensures monuments which have shaped towns and villages for generations will be protected, restored and made accessible for all.”

In Sligo, three historic sites have received funding. Keeloges Church has been allocated €130,000; Moygara Castle has been allocated €100,000; Court Abbey-Graveyard has been allocated €130,000; and Moymlough Castle has been allocated €30,000.

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“People in communities across Sligo and Leitrim work tirelessly to protect local monuments and historic sites. Their dedication is the reason these monuments continue to help enrich communities,” added Minister Feighan.