Restoration Project for Historic Church Receives Additional Funding

A restoration initiative for St Mary Magdelene church, located in Newark, Nottinghamshire, has secured additional funding. The church, which closed in November due to the necessity of urgent repairs and renovations, is prioritizing fixes to its leaking roof. The overall cost for this undertaking is projected to be close to £4 million, with initial financial contributions provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic England, and the Church of England. This funding has been augmented by two recent grants, collectively amounting to nearly £19,000, from the National Churches Trust (NCT) and the Wolfson Foundation. The Grade I listed structure, situated on Church Walk, includes sections that originate from the 12th Century. Its spire, measuring 236 feet (72 meters) in height, is considered to be the fifth tallest in England. Beyond its role as a historical site of worship, the church also serves as a community hub, facilitating activities such as toddler groups, youth gatherings, a community cafe, a library group, flower festivals, and consistent musical performances. However, the edifice, which is listed on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register, will remain inaccessible until November 2025 as restoration efforts proceed. The financial contribution from the NCT is designated specifically for addressing the “crumbling” external stonework. Andrew Fearn, who serves as the church warden and leads the Reawakening project, stated: “If you look down at the roof from the tower you can see where parapets have come adrift.” He further explained: “As they have come adrift they have been place on the roof for safety, to prevent them falling off.” Fearn added: “And one of the first tasks for the masons is, where the parapets are in place, repair them, and where they are not, replace them.” Claire Walker, chief executive of the NCT, commented: “We are delighted to be able to support St Mary Magdalene church to enable them to carry out urgent repairs to their beautiful building. ” She continued: “Not only will this protect this important heritage, but it will help to keep the church building open and serving local people.” Follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.