(Photo: Church of England)
In a move to safeguard the nation’s cultural landmarks, the government has unveiled three new funds, with one specifically dedicated to places of worship. This initiative aims to fill the gap left by the recent changes to a longstanding church repair grant.
Church communities have voiced concerns after the government’s decision to significantly reduce and eventually phase out the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme (LPWGS). Initially introduced by Gordon Brown during his tenure as Chancellor, the LPWGS offered VAT exemptions on repairs for historic churches. However, the current administration reduced its budget to £23 million before deciding on its complete replacement.
The newly established Places of Worship Renewal Fund, matching the £23 million budget of its predecessor, focuses on providing crucial support to churches in dire need of repair. The government highlighted that this scheme brings “much-needed certainty to the church sector.”
There has been criticism from church leaders regarding the government’s approach. The Rt Rev Rosie Frew, former moderator of the Church of Scotland General Assembly, expressed disappointment earlier this year, stating, “We were surprised to learn, via a press release, that LPWGS is being closed at the end of the month and very disappointed that this decision was taken without any formal consultation with religious denominations in Scotland.
“The UK Government announced a replacement grant scheme for England only at the end of January and the UK Government appears not to have informed the Scottish Government prior to this unexpected announcement.”
The National Trust also highlighted the potential difficulties, noting that the abrupt termination of the LPWGS “leaves potentially hundreds of churches in the lurch”.
This week marks the commencement of the new fund’s application process, which has been positively received by the Church of England’s joint lead bishop for buildings, Dr Jane Steen. She emphasized the importance of church buildings, stating, “Our church buildings are national treasures for the common good, both for their spiritual, cultural and historical significance and the vital practical help they provide communities across the country.”
Dr Steen further noted that local volunteers predominantly shoulder the responsibility of fundraising for church repairs. She expressed optimism about the new initiative, saying, “We welcome the launch of the Fund and we look forward to working closely with Historic England, in helping encourage eligible churches to make full use of the scheme.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
