London congregations responsible for looking after listed places of worship can now apply to a new £15million fund.
The grants are available through the government-funded Listed Places of Worship: Roof Repair Fund to address urgent roof repairs ensuring historic buildings are weathertight, safe and open for use.
Organisations, trusts and congregations of all faiths and denominations can apply for a grant from £10,000 to £100,000 to meet the costs of urgent repairs to roofs and rainwater disposal systems.
Culture Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Our places of worship are wonderful examples of our heritage that we’re proud to invest in.
“This fund will help conserve and maintain these historic buildings so they can continue to play a vital role in the communities they serve, for years to come.”
Limited funding can also be provided for structural investigations, specialist reports and bat surveys.
The Bishop of Worcester, Rt Revd Dr John Inge, lead bishop for cathedrals and church buildings welcomed the news.
He said: “This will make a real and lasting difference to parishes that are awarded grants.
“A secure roof can last 100 years and will prevent gradual, and ultimately costly, decay of fabric.
“It will keep these important buildings warm and secure, allowing them to remain open and welcoming for both worship and wider community use.
“This fund will particularly provide relief for those parishes that are resource-poor, allowing them to focus their attention on growing their ministry and engaging with local people.”
There is only one opportunity to apply to The Listed Places of Worship: Roof Repair Fund.
The closing date for applications is noon, Friday January 30 2015 – decisions will be announced in March 2015.
For more information on how to apply visit www.lpowroof.org.uk
Picture courtesy of David Iliff, with thanks
