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The Role of the Church Commissioners

 

The final decision about the future of closed church buildings rests with the Church Commissioners. They are helped by the advice of the Statutory Advisory Committee of the Church Buildings Council. Before a proposal for a new use, demolition or preservation can take effect the Commissioners (through their Closed Churches Division) must prepare and publish a draft scheme and consider any representations.

 

The Church Commissioners distribute the proceeds of the sale of closed churches and sites. At least two-thirds of the proceeds are returned to dioceses for the support of the living Church and are used for purposes such as clergy stipends and housing and new church buildings - a sum of approximately £26 million since 1969. A one-third share towards the Church's share of financing the Churches Conservation Trust or helps with the maintenance of churches pending a decision on their future is available.