Local community groups to benefit from Heritage Grant scheme announcement
Five projects in Westmeath have secured a total of €66,539 in funding under the Heritage Council’s 2025 Community Heritage Grant Scheme.
The groups to benefit from the funding announcement by the Government are the Athlone No 1 Gun Battery Heritage Group who have been allocated €25,000, Athlone Little Theatre who have were awarded €4,300, Goldsmith Country CLG whos will receive €12,239, Butterfly Conservation Ireland who will reveive €2,881, while Empor community development group have been allocated €25,000.
The Athlone No 1 Gun Battery Heritage Group received €25,000 for the conservation repairs of the No. 1 gun battery on the west side of the town, the last remaining example of the eight batteries that were constructed in Athlone c. 1795 to defend against possible French attack during the Napoleonic Wars. It is hoped that the site will become an outdoor visitor attraction centre or military trail linked with Custume Barracks and Athlone Castle in the future.
These grants will enable local communities to conserve and celebrate Ireland’s built, cultural, and natural heritage.
All funded projects can begin work immediately and are expected to be completed by the end of the year. Previous recipients in Westmeath have used this funding to restore architectural features, digitise local archives, and carry out conservation training — strengthening both the preservation of heritage and the local economy.
Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, said he was "proud that the scheme continues to empower local communities to safeguard their heritage in all its forms."
“Community groups and heritage organisations do incredible work in preserving and our natural, cultural and built heritage for generations to come.
"From conserving historic buildings and graveyards, to digitising archives, restoring monuments, and promoting biodiversity, these initiatives ensure that Ireland’s unique stories, traditions, and places are protected for future generations. I am inspired by the creativity and commitment shown by groups across the country," the Minister said.