Louth County Council welcomes funding under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund

Louth County Council welcomes the allocation of €100,000 in funding for Hatch’s Castle, Ardee, under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund.

The funding was announced recently by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and the Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD. The announcement forms part of a nationwide investment of over €8 million, supporting 104 heritage projects across the country.

Hatch’s Castle is one of Ardee’s most important historic landmarks. The site received Community Monuments Fund support in 2025 to carry out a conservation study. This year’s funding builds on that work and will support essential conservation and repair works. These works will help protect the castle and secure its future.

The Community Monuments Fund was established in 2020. It supports projects that care for, protect and promote archaeological monuments. The fund also improves public access to heritage sites and how they are presented. Louth County Council administers the fund locally on behalf of the National Monuments Service. The Council works closely with monument owners and communities to protect and promote local monuments and historic sites.

Welcoming the announcement, Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said:

“Louth may be a small county, but it is rich in history. This is reflected in the many important archaeological sites and monuments found across the county. I want to acknowledge the valuable work of individuals, community groups and volunteers who care for these heritage assets on behalf of the people of Louth. With the support of funding such as the Community Monuments Fund, these important sites can be protected and enjoyed by generations to come.”

Welcoming the funding for the Ardee landmark, Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District said:

“This funding for Hatch’s Castle is hugely positive for Ardee. The castle is a defining feature of our town and a symbol of its long and rich history. Investment through the Community Monuments Fund will allow essential conservation works to progress, helping to safeguard this important landmark while also enhancing Ardee as a place to live, visit and learn about our heritage. It is very encouraging to see our local history recognised and supported in this way.”

Thomas McEvoy, Director of Services of Louth County Council added:

“Louth County Council is committed to protecting the county’s built and natural heritage, including important sites such as Hatch’s Castle in Ardee. We provide guidance and support to monument custodians while our Heritage Officer plays a key role in delivering the Community Monuments Fund locally by working closely with owners, from application through to project completion. We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the team at Hatch’s Castle to safeguard this important heritage asset into the future.”

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. The full list of awards is available HERE.