On 1 April 2020 new faculty rules came into effect. This is the first substantial change since the 2015 rules that introduced the lists of works that could be done without faculty, some after confirmation by the Archdeacon that a faculty is not needed.
The new rules add to both List A (works that can be done without permission) and List B (works that the Archdeacon must confirm do not need a faculty). There will be more routine, repair and maintenance works that will not need faculty. The range of items in the list is increased and a distinction made between listed and unlisted buildings where appropriate. Matters to encourage better use of energy are moved into the lists, and providing bike racks is introduced for the first time.
One intention of the new rules is to see churches better supported through the faculty process. For churches with far-reaching proposals that will change the character of a listed building wide consultation remains necessary. However, it has been moved to earlier in the process so that parishes will have the benefit of the advice before the DAC issues its notification of advice. This regularises a working practice that has already become establishes in many dioceses.
Full Faculty process starts with submission of an application to the DAC
Consultation regarding works affecting the fabric or contents of a church, intending applicants must seek advice regarding works affecting the fabric or contents of a church. Intending applicants must consult National Amenity Societies, Church Buildings Council, Historic England, and Local Authority and their responses must be submitted with an application to the DAC. Criteria for cosultation can be found in Part 4 of the new Faculty Jurisdiction Rules April 2020 'Consultation and advice before starting faculty proceedings'.
There are six: The Council for British Archaeology, The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB), The Georgian Group, The Victorian Society, The Twentieth Century Society and the Historic Buildings & Places.
Any national amenity society which is likely to have an interest in the works should be consulted where they involve demolition of a listed building of any grade or its alteration or extension to such an extent as would be likely to affect its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest (this includes significant re-ordering of the interior and especially where fixtures, fittings and furnishings are to be permanently removed); or they involve demolition affecting the exterior of an unlisted building in a conservation area.
Whether a national amenity society is likely to have an interest in works will depend on the age of the building (or the relevant part of it) and the likely effect on it of the proposed works. For example, the removal of Victorian pews from a medieval building is likely to be of greater interest to the Victorian Society than to the SPAB.
If in any doubt, contact the relevant society’s case worker (all of the amenity societies have contact telephone numbers on their websites) or e-mail the details of the scheme to one central point of contact where your email will be forwarded on to the appropriate amenity society.
Church Buildings Council
The Church Buildings council can be contacted on this email address.
East of England Historic England (Essex)
- Download the Pre-faculty consultation form
- Send them an email
- Visit their website
- Historic England Emergency Funding June 2020
Greater London Historic England
Architects Specification Required
Why a specification be needed? - read this helpful note
Churchcare Statements of Significance & Need form
If your church is listed, then you need to write a statement of significance and needs to apply for faculty. Download the form.
Standard Information Form 1A
Chancellor's Direction on Insurance Cover for works to Church & Churchyard
The text of the new rules can be viewed and downloaded on this pdf. An updated guidance flowchart can be viewed and downloaded as a stand-along document here.
List A & B applications can also be uploaded onto the on-line faculty system
After consulting with DAC members and/or Advisors and the proposals are acceptable, your Archdeacon will then issue an Archdeacons Written Notice specifying the works that you may complete (the Archdeacon may set conditions on the way the works are carried out) upon receipt of the notice you can proceed. No work should be undertaken without this notice.
These lists should simplify and speed up some works in our church buildings. However, please do take care as there are exclusions in the new legislation. This is a time of change for us all, but the Archdeacons in the Diocese of Chelmsford hope that this new legislation and new processes will serve you better and lighten your load a little.
Please remember your Archdeacon is always available for advice about matters concerning your church building, its upkeep and repair. You can find contact details for your Archdeacon on our Area Team webpages. This page includes a map to help you identify which Area your parish comes under.
If you have any questions please contact Sandra Turner, DAC Secretary by email or call 01245 294413 or 01245 294423.
DAC meeting dates
Deadline for applications, visit requests and other matters for consideration by the Committee must be submitted to the DAC Office by email no later than 12 days prior to the below meeting dates.
Any information received after this time will automatically be placed on the next available agenda.
2024 DAC meeting dates
- 6 February
- 19 March
- 30 April
- 11 June
- 23 July
- 3 September
- 1 October
- 5 November
- 10 December