27/09/2010

Today, York Minster has announced a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) confirmed grant of £9.7million. The grant will allow for the continuation of the York Minster Revealed project which includes the restoration of glass and stone of the East Front. The project also improves the visitor experience by providing access for those with disabilities to all public areas the building and by improving amenities. Allied to the improvement in the offer to visitors is the provision of a new interpretative scheme. York Minster Revealed also builds on the existing apprenticeship schemes in both the Minster Stoneyard and the York Glaziers' Trust.

The Very Reverend Keith Jones, Dean of York, said, "The grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund will enable us to restore one of this country's most important works of art, the East Window of York Minster. At the same time, it will help us welcome visitors to the Minster with much improved facilities for them, so that their visit will be all the more rewarding. This is one of the country's most loved places, and this enables us to make it known and enjoyed by many more people. It is very exciting, and the coming years of work will be well worth it."

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, said: "It's wonderful that the Minster has been successful with its application for Heritage Lottery Fund support. The East Window, which tells the whole story of the Book of Revelation in painted glass, is a beautiful and historic work of art, which brings joy to so many people, worshippers, visitors and York residents alike. Indeed the Minster as a whole is a masterpiece which speaks of the glory of God, and the creative imagination of human beings. I look forward seeing the window restored to its former glory. I am, therefore, very thankful to the HLF, and in particular to Fiona Spiers, Head of HLF Yorkshire, for her tireless work and skill in enabling this bid and many others in the region to have a successful outcome."

 

Carole Souter, Chief Executive of the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: "York Minster is one of the country's finest buildings and a tribute to the craftsmanship and innovation that flourished here from the 13th century onwards. The Heritage Lottery Fund's grant of nearly £10million will help restore and protect this breathtaking landmark for many years to come as well as making sure that it continues to be a welcoming place for worship, learning and peaceful contemplation."    

Michael Benson, Chief Executive York Minster Revealed said, "This is splendid news. The decision by the Trustees indicates not only that they have a belief in the project but also that they have confidence in the structures now in place to deliver a successful outcome. The next five years will be incredibly busy, but our masons, carvers and glaziers are the best in the world, so I am confident that the work will be completed on time and to an exceptionally high standard."

The project had previously received an earmarked HLF grant of nearly £10million in 2007.

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