Environment Minister Alex Attwood today raised the cap on grant-aid for listed buildings from £50,000 to £150,000.

This will come as a significant boost for owners of listed buildings and it will open up the opportunity for many more listed buildings to get improvement works.

The Minister has been able to make this happen through good financial management of his existing budget.

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Mr Attwood said: "This is a real boost for our historic buildings. They are a jewel in the crown of our tourism industry. The record numbers who passed through their doors during European Heritage Open Days is testament to that.

"Obviously there are many demands on the public purse in Northern Ireland. But I want to do everything in my power to ensure that we preserve these historic buildings for present and future generations. Their tourism potential is great so it was good that I was able to secure some additional funding for this important grant-aid scheme."

As part of Programme For Government, DOE is committed to 'protecting and enhancing our environment and natural resources'.

(CD/GK)