Masterplan launched to save Christchurch Priory for future generations after Historic England puts it on at-risk register

A £15million “ambitious masterplan” has been launched to save Christchurch Priory.

The Grade I listed building, parts of which date from the 12th century, has been named one of England’s ‘Great’ churches and welcomes more than 90,000 visitors every year.

But it needs restoration and repair in several areas.

Historic England has put the Priory on its ‘Heritage At Risk Register’. Its report states: “The upkeep and repair of these buildings pose a significant challenge and the responsibility falls entirely on the local community.”

To this end a masterplan prioritising seven projects has been put together.

First is the restoration of the nave roof and conservation of its medieval painted timberwork.

The creation of a new Heritage Hub encouraging more education engagement with schools and colleges is also planned.

Improving accessibility for disabled people is on the list things to do along with conserving the south elevation of the priory.

Repairing and restoring the nave floor is scheduled to be done along with installing new heating and lighting in a bid to reduce emissions.

New catering and shop facilities will also be created to “provide a sound and sustainable financial foundation for everything the parish is called to do.”

A spokesperson for the priory said the “vision” behind the masterplan is “Building on the Past, Securing the Future.”

Canon Charles Stewart, vicar of Christchurch, said: “In the life of every ancient church there comes a time when a special effort is needed to secure the future of the building and also the viability of its mission and service of the community in years to come.

“For Christchurch Priory, such a time is now. Our hard-working and active congregations, supported by the Friends of the Priory and dedicated volunteers from the local community, struggle to maintain this historic place of worship, let alone cover the cost of major repairs.

Talking about the £15 million needed, he added: “We are asking anyone for whom the priory has played a part in their lives to contribute, or anyone who has special affection for it, to help fund this. They may think, what can my small contribution do? But if lots of a people give, that target will come down.

“We have had a fantastic start and already have £2 million thanks to some wonderfully generous gifts.“

The Rev Stewart said paying for the restoration has been hit by the government’s decision to change the VAT reclaiming rules on the listed places of worship grant scheme, adding: “That has been a big blow.”

Professor Christopher Wood, chair of the campaign fundraising board said: “The masterplan goes far beyond repair and maintenance of the building: it secures our future ministry to the community.”