Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader of the Independent Group of Ministers, Sean Canney TD has welcomed the allocation of €130,000 in funding for the restoration of the former railway station in Oughterard, Co. Galway, under the 2025 Historic Structures Fund (HSF).
The funding was announced by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, and will support critical repairs to the roof, windows and rainwater goods of the 19th-century building. These works will help protect and conserve a valuable part of Galway’s historic transport infrastructure.
Minister Canney said: “This is a very welcome investment in Galway’s built heritage. The former Oughterard railway station holds deep historical significance and its restoration will not only safeguard its structure but also create opportunities for reuse that can benefit the community. I want to commend Minister O’Sullivan for his commitment to protecting our national heritage.”
The Historic Structures Fund, operated by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, is a match-funded initiative aimed at supporting the conservation of landmark buildings across the country. This year’s €3.5 million investment will support 28 projects nationwide and is expected to leverage a further €7.6 million in private investment.
Minister Canney added: “Preserving our historic rail and transport infrastructure is an essential part of telling the story of regional development in Ireland. I will continue to support investment in projects that value both heritage and community.”