The HRBA has responded to the Taylor Review into the Sustainability of English Churches and Cathedrals. This is the first time ever that the Government has commissioned a review into the future of church buildings, in this case Church of England churches in England.
Although having reservations about some aspects of the Review, the HRBA is broadly supportive. In particular it:
- is pleased that the community value of Church of England buildings was given prominence. Every study of these churches has found that already they provide significant community benefit,
- welcomes the recognition of the importance of church buildings as heritage assets, as well as community assets, and
- welcomes the clear affirmation that lottery funding is not a substitute for Government funding.
There is still work to be done on considering the implications of the Review for other Christian denominations and other faith groups.