CIOB has responded to the Mid-Term Review of Heritage Ireland 2030, calling for a more active and sustainable approach to managing Ireland’s built heritage. Our submission highlights the role of heritage buildings in delivering climate, housing and regeneration objectives, arguing that fiscal and planning policies should incentivise restoration and adaptive reuse over demolition. We recommend reforms including VAT changes to support refurbishment, a stamp duty deferral scheme for heritage retrofits, and clearer planning pathways for converting vacant historic buildings into housing.

The response also emphasises the importance of professional competence and workforce stability in heritage management. CIOB supports the recognition of Chartered Construction Managers within local authorities, greater adoption of value-based procurement, and targeted support for heritage apprenticeships and specialist SMEs. By aligning heritage policy with sustainability, skills development and housing delivery, Ireland can ensure its historic buildings remain productive, resilient assets that serve communities for generations to come.