Tessa Munt, MP for Wells and rural areas around Burnham-On-Sea, has called on the Government to reinstate the ‘Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme’, warning that many historic churches and chapels across rural parts of Somerset could face an uncertain future without it.
The scheme, which previously allowed places of worship to reclaim VAT on essential repairs, was extended for an extra year in early 2025 following campaigning that included work by Ms Munt. However, it has since been replaced by a new grant system that is now subject to tax.
Ms Munt says the change leaves many rural communities struggling to cover even basic maintenance.
She said she has been contacted by “many Listed churches and chapels” over the past year and a half, all raising concerns about the impact of reduced support. “For many, it wasn’t just a significant grant, it was essential to their continuation,” she said.
The previous fund had already been cut to £23m a year before being replaced. Liberal Democrat representatives have warned that the combination of reduced support and the addition of VAT could leave buildings such as St John’s Church in Axbridge and Wells Cathedral facing major financial pressure. Many of these churches also serve as the only community spaces in their villages.
A recent estimate from the National Churches Trust suggests that one in twenty UK churches will need a new roof or guttering this year. Without further action, the total tax bill for places of worship over the next four years could exceed £120m.
Ms Munt added that the region’s historic churches are “part of our heritage and landscape” and said she will continue pressing ministers to rethink the decision.
