Report by Neil Perry, Treasurer, Guestling PCC
In order to protect the historic building of St Laurence Church a preservation project is now underway. In 2007 a Qinquennial Report by the church architects observed that there was significant weather damage to the tower and part of the north nave roof. The PCC therefore decided that we had no option but to embark on a restoration project.
In June 2009 we applied to English Heritage for a grant. Following an extensive examination, and in recognition of its Grade 1 listed status, English Heritage decided in December 2009 to award the PCC a two-stage grant to restore the building. The PCC agreed the terms and conditions of the award and the first stage (Project Definition phase) of the project came into effect in January 2010.
As I write this, building contractors, under the supervision of the architect, are removing sample stones from tower and tiles from the roof to confirm the true extent of the work required to restore the building to a good condition and to prevent further weather damage.
Phase 1 will be completed at the end of 2009 and one of the local actions will be to raise the balance of the funds required for the restoration, before the work in earnest to preserve the building can begin in 2011. There is a shortfall of about £41,000 between the estimated total cost of the project and the extent of the English Heritage Grant and this will have to be found locally. Unfortunately, it is not a wealthy church!