Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, is encouraging churches and parishes in South Staffordshire to apply for the Government’s £15 million roof scheme for vulnerable listed church buildings.
The scheme, which was announced as part of the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, is designed to help church buildings which have become unsafe to use. Many church buildings across the country are in urgent need of repair, with the deterioration of roofs, gutters and stonework some of the main problems that parishes face.
Eligible parishes can make applications for grants for between £10,000 and £100,000. These grants will be awarded by the end of March, with the deadline for submissions being 30th January 2015.
Gavin said: “Churches are an extremely important part of our communities. They are not only a place of worship but also a host for wider community activities, a symbol of local identity and have important historical value. I would urge the churches in South Staffordshire to look into the funding so these important buildings can be preserved and remain as safe and sustainable places in our communities.”
The scheme is being administered by the National Heritage Memorial Fund www.nhmf.org.uk and more information can be found on the website www.churchcare.co.uk