Historic England (HE) has published a suite of research and resources on ‘Major Parish Churches’, ‘highly significant buildings that provide functions and services to local and regional communities in addition to parish ministry’.
Historic England writes:
The findings of the research project, case studies and film are now available on https://historicengland.org.uk/majorparishchurches
This research focuses on highly significant buildings that provide functions and services to local and regional communities in addition to parish ministry. It has explored the current physical condition and the resources available to maintain, repair, manage and sustain these buildings.
The project began in October 2015 and data was gathered from Church of England dioceses and sample parishes. The research questions covered five topics:
- Attitudes towards the buildings
- Who takes responsibility or contributes to their care
- How they welcome visitors
- Funding and finances
- Making changes to accommodate new activities or facilities.
Fifty parish churches contributed to an online survey and a follow-up telephone interview. Each building is now the focus for a short case study. Thirteen churches were chosen for more detailed investigation, to illustrate a cross-section of experiences, locations, roles and ministries to provide a deeper appreciation of the daily challenges and opportunities associated with using these buildings. A separate report of these case studies is now available.
This work, funded by Historic England, was completed in partnership with Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), the Greater Churches Network, the Cathedral and Church Buildings Division of the Church of England and Doncaster Minster.
The project partners are greatly indebted to everyone who has taken part.
If you have any comments or queries about the research please email them to churches@historicengland.org.uk
For further information and to download the report go to https://historicengland.org.uk/majorparishchurches.
