Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has welcomed the Government’s announcement of a new Places of Worship Renewal Fund, which will provide £23 million per year from 2026/27, with £92 million confirmed through to 2029/30, to support listed places of worship across England. The update was set out in a letter to Mr Smith from Baroness Twycross, Minister for Museums, Heritage and Gambling.
The new fund will target support at places of worship with the greatest need, recognising their value as historic buildings and vital community hubs. The Government has confirmed that the existing Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme will end on 31 March 2026, following an evaluation which found that much funding went to places that would have carried out the work even without the rebate.
The Minister emphasised ongoing engagement with heritage stakeholders and highlighted the essential role of places of worship in communities across England.
Commenting, Julian said, “Our listed places of worship are vital to local identity and community life. I welcome the Government’s new Places of Worship Renewal Fund, which will help protect these important buildings for future generations. I will keep working with Ministers and local faith groups to ensure our communities get the support they need."
You can read the Minister's full letter here.
