Conservation

The Conservation section of the Cathedrals and Church Buildings Division works to advise and support parishes in the appropriate use and care of the Church’s built heritage, specifically furnishings and artworks of artistic and historical significance. It supports both the Church Buildings Council in its advice to parishes, DACs and Chancellors (as part of the faculty jurisdiction process) and the Cathedrals Fabric Commission for England.

The section also provides grants for the repair and conservation of historical ecclesiastical buildings and their contents. The conservation of artworks and historical furnishings as well as fabric repairs are eligible for assistance. Further information, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, can be found on the Churchcare website. Our conservation staff will be glad to give advice or discuss the scope for grant aid.

The team acts as a focal point for conservation issues related to churches and their contents. They also organise conferences and study days with the aim of promoting good practice in the use and care of church contents. A main event organised by the section is the annual Conservation Forum, which seeks to discuss and promote the latest developments in the conservation of ecclesiastical heritage. Further information on our publications can be found on the Churchcare website.

Contact:

Andrew Argyrakis, Conservation Officer
(general enquiries and grants for fabric repair)
telephone 0207 898 1885 or email andrew.argyrakis@c-of-e.org.uk

Dr David Knight, Conservation Assistant
(organs, bells and clocks)
telephone 0207 898 1874 or email david.knight@c-of-e.org.uk

Dr Pedro Gaspar, Conservation Assistant
(monuments, timberwork, metalwork and church plate, textiles, books and manuscripts, paintings and stained glass)
telephone 0207 898 1889 or email pedro.gaspar@c-of-e.org.uk