St. Luke’s church in Pendleton, Salford is to be part of a Greater Manchester-wide government funded pilot scheme.

The £1.8 million initiative, managed by Historic England, was set up to enhance and repair the cities listed places of worship.

The Grade Two listed building was added to Historic England’s at risk register due to its leaking roof which caused damage to the church’s ceilings.

As a result the church is set to receive up to £10,000 after applying for the grant through Historic England.

However, Reverend Charlie Gorton says the amount will only cover minor repairs.

More than places of worship

The initiative looks to carry out suggestions made by the Taylor review which examined the sustainability of English churches.

The review concluded that churches play a “vital role in providing public services to the community and give communities a sense of identity”.

St Luke’s provides the space for a range of community orientated services as its church hall is used up to three times per day.

Activities range from kickboxing to arts and crafts plus the hall also doubles up as a drop-in centre for people to pop in and simply have a chat. The Bishop of Manchester Dr. David Walker said:

“Church buildings are an important and much loved part of the heritage of Greater Manchester. Many are also well used to providing much needed community activities. We are delighted that Manchester is part of this pilot scheme.”

Although the church is made to work, it boasts a rich historical past. Its architect George Gilbert Scott designed the church in 1865 and was also responsible for designing the St. Pancras Hotel and Albert War memorial.

Emmeline Pankhurst got married to her husband Richard Pankhurst at St. Lukes in 1879 and went on to lead the Suffragette movement.

St. Luke’s is not the only church in Salford taking part in the scheme. St. Clemants of Ordsall is also a Grade Two listed building and is undergoing a fabric investment.

salford church

Work has not yet begun on St. Luke’s but Reverend Gorton is hopeful that the £10,000 St Luke’s is eligible for will increase.

photo credit St luke’s

Photo credit of St Clements

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