Our Centre for Heritage, Arts and Learning in Worcester wins HLF support
The project will include essential roof repairs and the installation of visitor facilities, upgrading the city-centre space to provide a diverse programme of music, cultural events and performing arts.
Throughout the project there will be a range of opportunities for local residents to take part in heritage conservation, as well as undertaking research into the church’s role within Worcester’s history.
The £196,000 is a first round award made by the HLF to develop the project over the next 18 months. We will return to HLF to bid for a second round award in 2016, hoping to secure approximately £1.4 million.
Working in partnership with The Friends of St Swithun’s, we developed the project to ensure the long term sustainability of this Georgian church.
Will Scott, Chairman of The Friends’ of St Swithun’s said:
“We are over the moon to receive this vital funding from HLF. Working with The Churches Conservation Trust to save St Swithun’s Church has been incredible and I am delighted that we can now start developing this much loved space into a centre for heritage, learning and arts. It will be fantastic to see it playing a vibrant role at the heart of the community once again, and this project will ensure that happens in the best possible way.”
Crispin Truman, our Chief Executive said:
“I am so pleased that the Heritage Lottery Fund has decided to back this project. St Swithun’s is a stunning example of the churches in our care, with its triple-decker pelican pulpit, Grade I listed Georgian organ, beautiful box pews and illustrious civic history. Their grant and matching donations will enable us to share the beauty of this place with even more local people, placing the church back at the heart of Worcester’s cultural, historical and educational life.”
Explaining the importance of the HLF support, Reyahn King, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund, West Midlands said:
“Creating a centre for heritage, learning and arts in St Swithun’s Church will breathe new life into this wonderful space, benefitting the local community as well as attracting new visitors to Worcester’s historic centre.”
If you would like to get involved with this exciting project, please do get in touch with Debs Hext, our Volunteering Officer on [email protected].