Rosy future for cathedral thanks to major lottery cash boost

Derby Cathedral has been awarded almost £250,000 of lottery funding to strengthen its organisational, financial and environmental resilience.

The £244,401 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund will support the development of four key strategic documents that will guide the delivery of the Chapter’s Strategic Development Plan.

This aims to ensure the conservation of the cathedral’s historic fabric, enhancing visitor experience and accessibility, and deepening its role as a centre for heritage, learning and spiritual reflection.

Derby Cathedral is a Grade 1 listed building located within the Cathedral Quarter Conservation Area.

Its architectural and historical significance dates back to the Saxons with a collegiate church on the site, c. 943AD.

The Cathedral is distinct not only for its architecture but also for its role in Derby’s cultural and spiritual life.

It hosts commemorative events such as Holocaust Memorial Day and Remembrance Sunday and serves as a vital community space.

For the local community, it is a place of worship, education and reflection.

There is also a strong choral tradition, and the Cathedral is known for its music outreach programme.

The new funding will play a key role in the long-term resilience and sustainability of the cathedral.

Dean of Derby, the Very Revd Dr Peter Robinson, said: “This is a momentous day for Derby Cathedral.

“We are deeply grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and to all those who play the National Lottery.

“Their support will allow us to safeguard this sacred space for future generations, while also opening up new opportunities for education, outreach and cultural enrichment.

“This grant is not just about bricks and mortar – it’s about people. It’s about ensuring that Derby Cathedral continues to be a place of welcome, inspiration, and shared history for all.”

Liz Bates, director (England, Midlands & East) at The National Heritage Lottery Fund, said: “We are pleased to support Derby Cathedral with a grant of £244,000 made possible thanks to National Lottery players.

“We recognise the scale of the challenges facing places of worship; our support will enable the Dean and Chapter to build strategic plans to make a step change in business planning, visitor engagement and conservation management.”