Grant helps keep a roof over Kenelm Youth Trust heads
Grant funding from the Moorlands Partnership Board has helped towards much-needed roof repairs at the Guildhall and St John the Baptist Church at the Alton Castle site - a nationally recognised collection of Pugin-designed listed buildings.
The Guildhall was constructed as a hospital and the Church was built to serve the hospital and as a school for poor children in the local area.
The Guildhall is now home to the Kenelm Youth Trust which offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and experiences for young people.
The site and complex of buildings occupy a dramatic location high on a hill over the Churnet Valley. The upkeep and maintenance costs of these historic buildings is considerable with both the Guildhall and Church requiring extensive roof repairs totalling over £200,000.
Moorlands Partnership Board grants of £8,000 to the Guildhall and £8,000 to the Church have helped contribute to the completion of the works.
Councillor Christina Jebb, Chair of the Moorlands Partnership Board, said: "We're delighted to have be able to offer financial help towards these much-needed repairs which mean the Trust can continue to operate safely and comfortably from this impressive site.
"Board members enjoyed a very informative visit to see the completed works first-hand and also to learn more about the valuable work done by the Trust. It's great to see the grant funding being put to such good use!"
Peter Lucas, the Parish Treasurer of St John the Baptist Church, said: "This has been an excellent project to be involved in and the results are very worthwhile. The fabric to this much-loved Grade II listed and architecturally significant Pugin church has been protected for generations to come."
Sandra Satchell, from the Kenelm Youth Trust, said: "The Kenelm Youth Trust is delighted to have received support to ensure the Guildhall roof repairs and windows are restored and young people are once again able to utilise the space for a range of activities including archery and group work during their visits to Alton Castle."
The Board, which meets three times a year, offers grant aid towards heritage projects that seek to repair, restore or enhance historic buildings and places.
There's more information about the heritage grants on Heritage-Grants page.
Published 24 October 2024
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