Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme

Answer from Marsha de Cordova

We are still awaiting details of the replacement scheme, following the confirmation of the end of the listed places of worship grant scheme in January. As I mentioned in my answer to my hon. Friend the Member for Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket (Peter Prinsley), I recently met the Minister for Heritage and impressed upon her how important it is that details of the scheme are published at pace. Church officials are working with Historic England on operational and policy issues, but we are still waiting for the Government to publish the guidance.

Answer from Marsha de Cordova

I hope that both St Paulinus church and Christ church will be eligible for the new places of worship renewal fund. While we await publication of further guidance, I again advise my hon. Friend that churches can also contact their local diocesan office for further advice and support. I would also be happy to write to him about any additional support that may be available to the churches in his constituency. Once again, I thank all colleagues for raising this important issue.

Answer from Marsha de Cordova

The answerer stated that she would try to visit Eastbourne, possibly during the tennis season. She emphasized the importance of certainty for churches and urged the Government to publish guidance for the places of worship renewal fund scheme at pace.