Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP is encouraging local organisations, faith groups and community leaders across Skipton and Ripon to apply for new funding to protect and maintain valued historic buildings.
Historic England and partners have opened three major funding programmes: the £92 million Places of Worship Renewal Fund, the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund, and the Heritage Revival Fund, which together will support the repair, revitalisation and long-term future of important buildings across England.
The Places of Worship Renewal Fund will run over four years and is open to all faiths and denominations, helping to fund urgent repairs, improved access and new facilities for listed places of worship.
Alongside this, the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund will provide up to £75 million to safeguard historic buildings and sites at risk, supporting conservation work, regeneration and projects that deliver clear benefits for local communities.
The Heritage Revival Fund, now in its second round, will provide £10 million per year to help communities rescue and repurpose neglected historic buildings, transforming them into assets such as cultural venues, workspaces and housing.
Expressions of Interest are due by 7 June 2026 for the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund and 14 June 2026 for the Places of Worship Renewal Fund.
Welcoming the announcement, Julian said, “Our churches, chapels and historic buildings are at the heart of communities across Skipton and Ripon. They are not only places of worship, but also hubs for local activities, heritage and support.
"I strongly encourage local groups, charities and faith organisations to consider applying for these funds. This investment will help keep these buildings open and ensure they remain at the centre of community life for years to come.”
Eligible applicants include charities, local authorities, community organisations and other not-for-profit bodies responsible for maintaining historic buildings.
Full details and application guidance for the Places of Worship Renewal Fund can be found here, for the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund here, and for the Heritage Revival Fund here.
