Two churches removed from Heritage at Risk Register

Two churches in the Diocese of St Albans have been removed from Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register following significant repair and restoration work.

St Mary’s, Baldock and All Saints, Great Barford have both successfully completed major projects to address issues affecting their buildings, allowing them to be removed from the register.

The achievement follows years of fundraising, planning and restoration work led by the churches and supported by their local communities.

The Heritage at Risk Register identifies historic buildings and sites that are most at risk due to neglect, decay or other threats. Removal from the register marks an important milestone and reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in caring for these church buildings.

Ann Wise, Historic Church Buildings Support Officer for the Diocese of St Albans, said:

“This is fantastic news for both churches. Congregations, volunteers and supporters have worked incredibly hard to raise the funds needed for major repairs and restoration work. Their success shows what can be achieved with determination, commitment and community support.”

The Venerable Dave Middlebrook, Archdeacon of Bedford, said:

“This is good news for All Saints, Great Barford, and testimony to those who have worked so hard on restoring their local parish church.

“As Archdeacon, I am very aware and extremely grateful for the many people across our diocese who give so generously of their time, skills and money in caring for our church buildings.”

The churches’ removal from the register provides encouragement for other parishes undertaking their own repair projects and demonstrates the positive impact of investing in the care of historic church buildings.

As places of worship, heritage and community life, churches continue to play an important role across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, serving local communities while preserving an important part of the nation’s history.