Full Breakdown
£5 Million Boost to Preserve South West Heritage Buildings and Churches
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Funding Announcement
Historic England has allocated a £5 million package to 17 heritage buildings and listed places of worship across England’s South West. The money comes from the organization’s Places of Worship Renewal Fund and the Heritage at Risk Capital Funds. Recipients include the Church of St Elwyn in Hayle, Cornwall; the neo-Gothic Church of St Matthias in Plymouth; and the vacant Grade II-listed Oldway Mansion in Torbay, among others in Devon and Cornwall.
Key Figures and Organizations
- Baroness Twycross – Heritage Minister, Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
- Emma Squire – Co-Chief Executive, Historic England.
- Claudia Kenyatta – Co-Chief Executive, Historic England.
- Historic England – Public body responsible for protecting England’s historic environment.
What the Funding Covers
- Structural repairs: Significant repointing and masonry work at St Elwyn to stop water ingress, roof and stonework restoration at St Matthias, and structural stabilisation for Oldway Mansion.
- Water management: New rainwater systems for St Elwyn.
- Interior and fabric conservation: Restoration of interior decorations and building fabric at several sites.
- Site protection: Protective works for Oldway Mansion’s surrounding parkland.
Official Statements and Expected Impact
Baroness Twycross emphasized that the investment will keep buildings that give towns their character open to communities for years to come. Emma Squire and Claudia Kenyatta highlighted that historic places sit at the heart of communities across England, shaping local identity and supporting social cohesion. Both executives noted that the grants target sites facing significant repair and conservation needs, ensuring they remain accessible and safe for residents and visitors.
Why It Matters
The funding aims to prevent further deterioration of at-risk heritage assets, safeguarding cultural tourism and community use. By addressing structural vulnerabilities and improving water management, the programme seeks to extend the lifespan of iconic buildings, protect local history, and maintain the South West’s distinctive architectural landscape.