Kelly Tolhurst MP has welcomed a recent Government announcement that Rochester Cathedral received £823,592 from the First Would War Centenary Cathedral Repairs Fund.
The fund, first announced by the Chancellor in the 2014 Budget has so far included a funding budget of £40m. it was established in order to allow for essential repair work to our cathedrals, including keeping buildings wind-proof, weather-tight, safe and open to the public, and preventing further deterioration of these buildings.
England’s cathedrals are among the most well recognised and loved buildings of our national heritage, welcome more than 11 million visitors annually and employ over 7,000 people.
On the announcement, Kelly said,
“I am pleased that our cathedral has secured such a significant chunk of funding that will help ensure one of Rochester’s most beloved landmarks and religious centre can be preserved and enjoyed for years to come.
“The community at Rochester Cathedral have long needed funding to begin extensive repair work and I am delighted their hard work has paid off.
The Dean of Rochester Cathedral Philip Hesketh commented,
“We are extremely grateful to receive this government funding that will enable us to address major roof repairs which have been outstanding for over ten years. Obtaining funding for cathedrals is increasingly difficult and as one of the smaller cathedrals still open free of charge, the challenge to raise enough money to keep the building open and in good repair is enormous.”