The Heritage at Risk NI Register highlights 1039 buildings and monuments of architectural and historic interest whose future seems uncertain due to lack of use or disrepair; or which are under threat through heritage crime and/or inappropriate development.

These vulnerable buildings are considered ‘buildings of potential’, suitable for restoration and re-use. Many structures featured on the HARNI register have subsequently found new owners or uses, with almost 200 removed from the register between 2006-16. Meanwhile negotiations are on-going in other cases.

The HARNI project, is a partnership between Ulster Architectural Heritage (UAH) and the Department for Communities: Historic Environment Division (DfC:HED).  The primary aims of the HARNI project are to record architecturally and historically important buildings that appear to be at risk,  and act as a catalyst for conservation and re-use of built heritage at risk. Since 1993, UAH and HED have through the Heritage at Risk project, provided help and advice for existing owners who may wish to engage upon a suitable scheme of maintenance; and offer assistance to potential owners that may be interested in restoring a building at risk. As of 2023 there are now 1039 buildings on the register, of which 822 are listed buildings. That means 9% of our listed buildings are at risk!

The HARNI project, its register, the statistics and data it generates, act as a ‘real time’ indicator, both for the condition of individual assets and the identification of trends in the condition of the broad historic environment. It provides an important indication of how the condition of the historic environment relates to geographical areas, ownership and type, allowing us to identify opportunities, pressures and threats. Trends identified by the HARNI register can help to direct individuals, groups, funders, and central and local government to target re-use, regeneration and repair works towards heritage need. It also serves to inform wider heritage policy and identify issues affecting heritage, which need to be addressed and prioritised. Below, before and after of heritage at risk, now saved: Thatch at Gortinure Road, Maghera, listed building reference HB08-01-021.

Find out more about Heritage at Risk across NI by searching the register here.

Further information on associated pages below:

• Funding
• Advice & Guidance
• Case Studies
• Directory of Traditional Building Skills
• Meanwhile Use
• Maintenance
• Heritage at Risk For Sale

If you are concerned about a heritage asset and think it should be included on the register please complete the following form below.