Worship Places' Importance Shouldn't Require a spectacular Blaze for Recognition
In the heart of Paris, the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, which suffered a devastating fire on April 15, 2019, has been restored and reopened after five years of painstaking labour and a staggering €700 million expenditure. The transformation of the cathedral's interior is nothing short of dazzling, with a renewed splendour reminiscent of the recently restored interiors of Chartres Cathedral and the Abbey of Fontevraud.
Athena, a columnist for 'Our Platform' magazine, was initially skeptical about the completion of the Notre Dame restoration project but was impressed by its successful execution. Upon seeing the restored cathedral, Athena was struck by the transformative nature of the restoration. She is looking forward to visiting Notre Dame Cathedral when next in Paris.
However, the restoration of Notre Dame serves as a stark reminder of the state of the UK's historic parish churches, which are currently at risk. The Chancellor has yet to formally agree to extend the Listed Places of Worship scheme that offers VAT relief for repairs to these buildings. Failure to extend this scheme could result in incremental, gradual harm to these historic churches, similar to the slow deterioration caused by a leaking roof.
The management of historic parish churches is becoming a significant conservation issue, with the debate shaping up to be a major conservation battle. If an exhibition is to initiate this debate, the Chancellor is suggested to be invited to open it. This year marks the 50th anniversary of 'The Destruction of the Country House' exhibition at the V&A Museum, which is credited with turning the tide on the sale and destruction of historic buildings.
The calamitous situation in Wales and Scotland serves as a warning that historic buildings cannot be taken for granted. External works are still ongoing at Notre Dame Cathedral, a testament to the tireless efforts being made to preserve these national treasures.
'Our Platform', unlike any other magazine, focuses on modern rural life and diverse joys and pleasures. It has been guest-edited by His Majesty The King twice. As we celebrate the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral, let us also reflect on the importance of preserving our historic parish churches for future generations to appreciate. Christmas, with its focus on reflection and renewal, could be a good moment to focus public consciousness on this pressing issue.
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