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In great shape – but for how long?

21 September 2009

English cathedrals have never been in better condition nor better cared for.  Yet they may soon be at risk.  That’s the paradoxical conclusion of the Cathedrals Fabric Commission for England (CFCE) in its Annual Review 2008, published today.

In its first published review, CFCE unravels the paradox.  Chairman the Rt Hon Frank Field MP said: “Most cathedrals have planned major repair and conservation strategies, and this finest collection of historic buildings in England will again be at risk if these plans cannot be carried through.”

CFCE has major concerns about the significant reduction in government-backed funding for cathedrals, especially with the demise at the end of 2009 of English Heritage’s ring-fenced cathedral repair fund.  Meanwhile, the overall Heritage Lottery Fund budget has fallen dramatically. 

“Although restoration budgets are crucial, they cannot be the first call on a cathedral”, Frank Field added.  “The primary demand on chapters is to keep cathedrals open as great shrines not only for worship but also to welcome the modern pilgrim – and, maybe, to invite a glimpse of something even greater.” 

Janet Gough, CFCE Secretary and Director of the Archbishops’ Council’s Cathedral & Church Buildings Division, said: “We must ensure what is significant is identified, preserved and, as appropriate, enhanced.  Considering mission and worship alongside the preservation of the heritage is a responsibility as well as a privilege. 

“We need both to overcome the squeamishness of some secular authorities when dealing with faith groups and also to encourage cathedrals actively to engage with local strategic partnerships”.

 

Notes

There are 42 Church of England cathedrals.  It costs them in excess of £10 million a year simply to maintain their fabric, and closer to £30 million if all major repairs are included.  The bulk of the money is raised locally.

The CFCE is a statutory body, with both regulatory and advisory functions.  It draws together many of the country’s most respected experts in their particular fields, who give generously of their time on a voluntary basis.

The cost of producing this first published annual review has been met by Geoffrey C Bond OBE DCL, JBR Vartan and the Mercers’ Company.

The Review may be found on-line at: http://www.cofe.anglican.org/about/cathandchurchbuild/cathedralsguidance/annualreview2008.pdf

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