(Photo: Church of Scotland)
In the wake of the abrupt cessation of the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme (LPWGS), Scottish church leaders are raising alarms about the potential repercussions on church maintenance and repairs. The sudden termination of this scheme, which has been a financial lifeline since 2001, is leaving many churches grappling with new financial challenges.
The National Churches Trust recently echoed these concerns, warning that the scheme’s end “leaves potentially hundreds of churches in the lurch.”
Initially launched by former Chancellor Gordon Brown, the LPWGS allowed historic churches to reclaim VAT on repairs. Although intended as a temporary measure, it was continually extended until the recent decision by Sir Keir Starmer’s administration to conclude it, alongside a reduction in its budget.
This change was intended to coincide with the introduction of the Places of Worship Renewal Fund (PWRF), but the transition has not been smooth. The PWRF is not yet operational, and its budget is significantly reduced, adding new financial pressures on churches.
The Scottish Church Leaders’ Forum has voiced its concerns, addressing a letter to culture minister Lisa Nandy. The forum highlighted how the closure of the LPWGS would impact vital community maintenance projects such as roof repairs and heating system upkeep.
Rt Rev Rosie Frew, moderator of the Church of Scotland General Assembly, was among the letter’s signatories. Rev Frew emphasized the threat to the viability of the Church’s extensive property portfolio, which includes over 1,100 listed buildings. She expressed surprise at the closure announcement, noting it was made without consulting Scottish religious denominations.
Rev Frew stated, “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.”
She is actively seeking “urgent clarification and assurances” about the continuation of funding for repairs in Scotland and underscored the role of churches as “living, breathing spaces at the heart of communities.”
With financial burdens growing, she warned that more historic churches might face sale, following previous disposals driven by demographic changes and rising costs.
Rt Rev John Keenan, a leading figure in the Scottish Catholic Church, also expressed concern. He noted that the funding gap could severely impact larger maintenance projects, citing a potential annual loss exceeding £100,000 for one diocese alone.
Keenan remarked, “In areas of deprivation where the environment is falling into depopulation and decline, the open doors of the local church and the light shining from within, is a source of solidarity, consolation and hope for the community that remains.”
Rev Frew and Rt Rev Keenan plan to discuss these pressing issues with Kirsty McNeil MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland, in an upcoming meeting.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
