Southwell Minster is facing a serious financial crisis, with more than £20 million in building repairs needed and concerns raised over its long-term future.
The Reverend Canon Dr Stephen Evans, who became Dean in April, revealed the scale of the difficulties following a six-week review of the Minster’s accounts. An emergency meeting was held and a report submitted to the Charity Commission.
In a letter to the congregation, the Dean said the repair deficit for the Minster’s buildings exceeded £20 million. Water reportedly poured through the cathedral roof during the Southwell Music Festival, while lighting on the north side of the building had been condemned.
He also warned that, at the end of July, the Minster appeared to have only enough money to cover one more payroll.
The Minster is discussing its financial position with the Church Commissioners. Potential sources of support include the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other grant-making organisations, although securing external funding could take two or three years.
Its 2025 accounts also need to be finalised before it can move forward with its recovery plans.
Newark MP Robert Jenrick raised the situation in Parliament, urging the Church Commissioners to intervene if necessary to prevent the Minster from closing.
Mr Jenrick said: “That would be a devastating loss not just to Southwell, but the whole county. For worshippers and non worshippers alike it has a special place in the hearts of so many.”
He also called on the Government to reinstate VAT relief on repairs to listed places of worship in next week’s Budget.
The Minster is a significant historic landmark for Southwell and the wider county, attracting worshippers and visitors and supporting local businesses.
Its leadership hopes to balance the books within three years, but securing funding for urgent building repairs remains a major challenge alongside restoring its long-term financial stability.
