MP urges 'at risk churches' in Shropshire to apply for funds to help with repairs

Stuart Anderson MP is writing to all places of worship in need of support with conservation efforts across South Shropshire, as new figures show an increasing number of them require urgent repair and maintenance work.

A new 'at risk register', published by Historic England, lists 18 places of worship in need of conservation support across South Shropshire, and more than 26 across the Shropshire Council area.

Some of these include the 12th century Church of St George in Church Street, Clun and the Church of St Michael and All Angels in Lydbury North.

In his letter, Stuart said: "You all play an integral role in bringing our communities and generations together. I understand that an increasing number of our places of worship in South Shropshire require urgent repair and maintenance work."

To assist with the cost of conservation efforts, the last government invested £350 million to preserve and maintain these buildings through the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme (LPWGS).

At present, there is up to £42 million available a year.

This funding level has been secured until 31 March 2025. In September, Mr Anderson called for an extension to the scheme.

This scheme provides grants to reimburse the VAT that is incurred by registered charities and faith groups on costs of over £1,000 associated with the repair and conservation of listed places of worship. 

This includes the roofs, masonry, and monuments integral to such buildings.

While the MP hopes an extension can be secured, he is urging eligible places of worship to consider applying and explore the other support available. 

This includes the National Lottery Heritage Fund's £15 million 'Heritage in Need: Places of Worship' initiative.

In addition, the Churches Conservation Trust funds repairs and maintenance of over 350 churches in their portfolio. 

Meanwhile, Historic England's 'Heritage At Risk' grant is funding £9 million worth of repairs between April 2024 and March 2025.

Since 2014, 22,633 churches, chapels, and other venues have received of funding through LPWGS – with 5,000 supported just in the last year alone. The scheme applies to all faiths and denominations across the UK. 

727 claims have been paid to places of worship in the West Midlands - worth almost £3 million since August 2022. South Shropshire constituency has received over £100,000 since 2022 to support local conservation projects.

Mr Anderson said: "Faith is central to the lives of many constituents in South Shropshire, which is home to some of the most historic and beautiful places of worship. These cherished venues play an integral role, providing spiritual leadership and bringing communities and generations together. Since my election in July, I have been delighted to visit many of these.

“In the years to come, I hope to visit even more. Sadly, 900 churches are on the Historic England ‘Heritage at Risk’ Register - including many in South Shropshire. At present, there is up to £42 million available per year. This funding level has been secured until 31 March 2025. While I hope an extension can be secured, I am urging eligible places of worship to consider applying and explore the support available."

More details about scheme and how to apply can be found at listed-places-of-worship-grant.dcms.gov.uk