Restoring Traditional Farm Buildings

The character of the built landscape is changing. Farm buildings in Northern Ireland have evolved to meet the needs of intensive production systems. Larger buildings are now required which provide good access for modern machinery and improved labour efficiency.

As a result many traditional farm buildings have been demolished, others are neglected and are in a state of disrepair. If this trend continues, there is a danger that the built heritage on farms will be lost, changing the appearance of the landscape forever.

Participants in the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) and the Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) Scheme can apply for funding to restore their traditional farm buildings. Payments are made towards the restoration of traditional farm buildings up to a maximum of £1,500 or £2,500 (subject to conditions of scheme).

Eligible buildings must have been constructed using brick or stone prior to 1939. The building must have been in agricultural use in the 12 months prior to the funding application and must remain in agricultural use for at least ten years thereafter.

Restoration work must use construction methods and materials that are in keeping with the building’s design, and must ensure that the building is compatible with the local landscape.

Alan Hunter restored one of the outbuildings on his farm in Eglinton using funding available through his Countryside Management Scheme agreement. It is now used as a sprouting shed for early potatoes. The shed is one of over 2000 farm buildings restored by agri-environment scheme participants throughout Northern Ireland since 1993.

For further information on all aspects of the restoration of traditional farm buildings contact Countryside Management staff at your local DARD office.