Architects and surveyors from across the north gathered at Whalley Abbey recently for the Church of England in Lancashire's biennial conference.

The last conference, planned for 2020, had been cancelled due to the pandemic. 

This event was held in the 'Centre for Christian Discipleship and Prayer' at the Abbey in the Ribble Valley, which is also the site of medieval ruins. 

Jen Read, senior church buildings officer for the Diocese, hosted the day which was also attended by representatives from other Dioceses including Carlisle, Leeds and Liverpool. 

Jen said: “It was great to be able to meet together again in person and we had a fantastic line-up of speakers to hear from across the day who collectively had a wide range of expertise to share with us. 

"Many travelled long distances to be with us and I’m grateful to them all for being able to attend."

Lancashire Telegraph:

The day was divided into two, with the morning dedicated to the changing climate and its effect on church buildings, and the afternoon focused on fundraising.

Jen added: "We were delighted to be able to host this conference in our Diocese; supporting many architects and surveyors and, in turn, our parishes as we continue to work with them. 

"All the talks were really helpful and gave fascinating insight into the issues facing our parishes as a result of climate change and the need for funding.

"There was a great buzz in the room and many of the delegates told me that they had enjoyed the day. Whalley Abbey is a wonderful setting and the staff there were extremely welcoming and helpful.”

Speakers included  Claire Headly, head of strategic climate change at Historic England; Mari Calderon, senior building conservation adviser at Historic England; David Wiggins, director of Clach Conservation and Julian Atkins, Church of England net zero programme director who gave an overview of the work begin done by the central church as part of its route map to net zero.