Fylde MP Andrew Snowden warns churches at risk as he backs plan to restore repair funding
Fylde MP Andrew Snowden has backed plans to restore funding for historic churches and places of worship, warning that recent cuts have put buildings across the area at risk.
The Conservatives say they would return the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme to previous funding levels and remove a £25,000 cap on repair claims, which was introduced under the current Labour government.
The scheme helps places of worship reclaim VAT on repair work, and has been used to support the upkeep of historic buildings across the UK.
According to the Conservatives, the annual budget was reduced from £42 million to £23 million, with the cap on claims limiting the amount congregations can recover for essential repairs.
Mr Snowden said churches remain “vital hubs” for communities across Fylde, providing support as well as preserving local heritage.
He said: “Labour’s decision to cut funding and impose a cap on repairs… 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.”
The announcement comes during the Easter period, a time when many churches see increased attendance and community activity.
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, said churches were “the centre of the community” in many areas and warned that once lost, historic buildings could not be replaced.
Meanwhile, Nigel Huddleston said uncertainty over future funding had already led to delays in repair work and could result in further deterioration of buildings.
However, no further details have been announced about how the policy would be implemented or when changes might take effect.
Sir Philip Rutnam, from the National Churches Trust, said removing VAT costs from repairs would help support volunteers maintaining historic churches, adding that some buildings face an uncertain future.
Estimates suggest that hundreds of places of worship across the country could be at risk without sustained investment, with campaigners warning of the long-term impact on both heritage and community life.