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Written question asked by Mark Pritchard (Conservative) on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 2 February 2026. It was answered by Marsha De Cordova (Labour) on Wednesday, 4 February 2026 on behalf of the Church Commissioners.

Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme: Hereford and Lichfield

Question

To ask the hon. Member for Battersea, representing the Church Commissioners, what representations she has received on the reduction in the budget for the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme from (i) the Bishop of Hereford and (ii) the Bishop of Lichfield and (iii) any other senior clergy within the Diocese of Hereford or the Diocese of Lichfield.

Answer

The Department of Culture, Media and Sport announced the replacement scheme to the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme on the 21st January.

The National Church Institutions welcomed the new Places of Worship Renewal Fund and await details of how it will operate with interest. The operational details are yet to be published, and the current scheme ends on the 31st March 2026. The full press release from the National Church Institutions can be found here: https://www.churchofengland.org/media/news-and-press-releases/national-treasures-common-good-new-repairs-fund-announced

The Diocese of Hereford and the Diocese of Lichfield are still examining the implications of the new scheme. They continue to work closely with the National Church Institutions on the best strategy to maximise the help available to local parishes.

The Lord Bishop of Hereford asked a question in the House of Lords about the operation of the new scheme on Monday, 26th January, 2026. In response, the Rt. Hon. Lord Livermore, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said “the details of the new scheme would be published soon”. In subsequent correspondence with the Minister, the Bishop of Hereford has sought assurance that the new grant scheme would keep to a minimum the administrative burdens on parishes. We welcome the Government’s indication that it will work with the Church of England to ensure the scheme is fair and transparent.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
109082
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Hereford Lichfield Listed places of worship grant scheme
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk