A Devon MP is calling on the government to scrap a new ‘church tax’ that he says could lead to a wave of closures across the county.
The government has recently axed a long-standing grant scheme which allowed listed places of worship to claim back VAT on essential upkeep and repairs.
In place of the scheme, which had already been reduced to just £23million a year nationwide, will be a new capital scheme that is subject to tax.
Newton Abbot’s Liberal Democrat MP Martin Wrigley said the cuts and the imposition of VAT would mean a significant drop in funding for historic buildings. In Devon, he said, local landmarks could face mounting bills for basic maintenance.
“Our historic places of worship are a vital glue that binds our communities in Devon together,” he said. “Churches are more than places of worship – they are hubs for food banks, youth groups and local support.”
The National Churches Trust recently warned that the new grant money is insufficient, estimating that one in 20 churches in the UK require a new roof or gutter this year alone. Without action, the estimated tax bill for places of worship over the next four years is expected to exceed £120million.
Liberal Democrat MPs say the government must restore the full VAT exemption for listed places of worship and reinstate the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme without a cap on individual claims.
In addition, they want the government to increase funding for the scheme to £42million per year, equivalent to previous levels before government cuts.
Mr Wrigley went on: “We won’t stand by while our heritage is taxed into dereliction.
“The government must reimburse churches for all VAT on repairs. We are calling for an immediate reinstatement of the grant scheme to protect these iconic buildings for future generations.”
Plan for thousands of homes suffers delay to tackle vital gaps
Arts and Culture East Devon announces recipients of Creative East Devon Fund
Audio ballot papers available to assist visually impaired voters in Exeter
Chief Medical Officer, Sir Chris Whitty, explores the health challenges in rural Devon
Taxi driver warned after third speeding ticket
Man charged in connection with Newton Abbot assault
Angry church leaders appeal after city council snub
Police appeal for witnesses following a tragic late night collision
Appeal following serious assault, Newton Abbot
Quarter of a million people in Devon treated for minor illnesses in local pharmacies
Valuable tips for parenting children through difficult topics are now available online
New observation wheel offers far-reaching views across Teignmouth
Van driver throws carrots at Dartmoor ponies
Vapes leading to likely rise in refuse fires
Devon man jailed for rape and sexual abuse of a woman
Deficits already predicted at Devon’s newest political body
