A Historic Environment Fund (HEF) which aims to support Northern Ireland's heritage has launched.

Following a public consultation, the framework for the HEF has been organised under four themes: Heritage Repair; Heritage Regeneration; Heritage Revival and Heritage Research.

The closing date for organisations to apply for funding is 10 October.

Communities Minister Paul Givan said: "The Historic Environment Fund (HEF) draws together a number of funding streams which are available to support our heritage. This ranges from listed building repairs; to support for communities to investigate their archaeology; enables councils to encourage maintenance activities; schools to help them visit Monuments in State Care; and, communities to regenerate historic monuments in their local area.

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"My intention is that this support will help stimulate action right across the historic environment. Our heritage is a finite resource, as well as a source of great pride with huge potential to contribute to our economy through tourism and the construction industry. It is vital that we work together across all possible routes to ensure that this legacy is protected, valued and highlighted to achieve its maximum potential."

(CD/LM)