Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge MP Ashley Fox has pledged to support churches and other places of worship across the constituency this Easter, as national concerns grow over the future of historic religious buildings.
The commitment comes as the Conservatives announce plans to restore funding for the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme to its previous level, after what they describe as significant reductions made under Labour.
According to the party, the scheme’s annual budget was reduced from £42 million to £23 million, alongside the introduction of a £25,000 cap on individual repair claims.
Local congregations say the changes have made it harder to carry out essential maintenance, with some projects delayed or cancelled altogether.
National estimates suggest that nearly 1,000 places of worship are now considered at risk due to neglect, raising concerns about long-term damage to historic buildings that sit at the heart of many communities.
Ashley Fox said the issue is particularly important for communities across the Burnham and Bridgwater constituency.
“Places of worship are not only central to our heritage but remain vital hubs across the Bridgwater constituency, supporting people and preserving our shared history,” he said.
“Labour’s decision to cut funding and impose a cap on repairs in the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme has put many of these buildings at risk, delaying essential works and creating real uncertainty about the future of these precious sites.
“The Conservatives will restore funding, remove the cap, and ensure churches and places of worship have the long-term support they need to continue to serve their communities and safeguard our national heritage.”
Local church leaders have long highlighted the rising cost of repairs, particularly for older buildings requiring specialist materials or conservation work. With many congregations relying on volunteers and donations, the grant scheme is often a crucial source of support.
Pictured: Ashley Fox MP at St Peter and All Hallows Church, West Huntspill, which benefited from the Listed Places of Worship Scheme.
