The church, which has been synonymous with Darlington’s history for decades, is making a desperate attempt to be removed from the heritage at risk register.
St Cuthbert’s Church, located in Darlington, has been around for more than 800 years. However, its roof is nearing the end of it’s life and, according to the National Churches Trust, without immediate action the church could fall into disrepair.
If the damage is not repaired quickly, it will cause the town to lose its landmark and plans for the building to become a community center, as well as a venue for events.
The lead roof of the North Aisle has failed, allowing water to enter the building.
Church officials have said that during periods of heavy rain, such as those the region experienced recently, the area surrounding the electrical distribution unit of the church becomes wet. This is “a huge danger”.
According to a spokesperson for The National Churches Trust, “the fabric of this Grade I Listed 12th Century church is at risk each time it rains.”
Failure to fix the roof could lead to structural damage as it continues to wear down. As long as there is a roof problem, Historic England will continue to list the church on its Heritage at Risk Register.
The charity, which was recommended by the National Churches Trust, has provided the church with PS20,000 in urgent funding, plus an extra PS10,000 for fabric repairs from the Wolfson Foundation.
Paul Gilmore from St. Cuthbert’s Parochial Church Council said, “This is fantastic news!” This grant, along with the grants of PS5,000 from Northumbria Historic Churches Trust and PS4,000 from Durham Diocese, helps secure the future of the beautiful building.
“St. Cuthbert’s is ambitious in its plans, and we want to expand our services for the people of Darlington. The grants are to ensure that the church is safe and will help us achieve our goals.
After the roof of the church is water-tight and secure, it will allow the church to implement its plan to redesign the building to be accessible to everyone, including churchgoers and visitors as well as people who are in need. The church will install a toilet and a café.
Claire Walker, CEO of the National Churches Trust said, “The National Churches Trust was excited to have been able to provide support to St Cuthbert’s Church to allow them to complete urgent roof repairs on their building. This will not only protect the important heritage of this church, but will also help keep it open to serve locals.
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