A future for your church : The general landscape, best practice, opportunities and pitfalls

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the current landscape surrounding ecclesiastical buildings across the UK, with a particular focus on the increasing trend of church closures, disposals and efforts at retention. It explores the challenges and opportunities associated with maintaining, adapting or acquiring historic church buildings, highlighting the significant responsibilities borne by those assuming stewardship of such properties. Drawing on practical experience, the paper underscores the necessity of appointing conservation-accredited professionals and engaging with appropriate legal and planning frameworks to mitigate risk and safeguard heritage value. Through detailed discussion, the paper addresses key considerations including legal title complexities, planning and listed building constraints, funding hurdles, insurance obligations and fabric condition. It also explores the implications of adapting churches for contemporary use, whether under private, charitable or community ownership. The paper culminates in a detailed case study of the Kirk of St Nicholas in Aberdeen, an A-listed ecclesiastical landmark, demonstrating how due diligence, strategic planning and interdisciplinary collaboration can enable successful outcomes even within highly complex scenarios. This study is intended for built environment professionals, heritage practitioners, policy makers and prospective purchasers or custodians of ecclesiastical buildings. It provides a theoretical and practical framework for understanding the multifaceted responsibilities involved and offers insight into how heritage assets can be preserved through adaptive, sustainable reuse. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.