In February 2022, General Synod approved new legislation to help parishes meet carbon-reduction targets and achieve net zero by 2030.
The path to net zero has many steps, and a lot of them are things that you can just do, without needing permission or discussion with anyone outside the PCC or church. As a general rule, permission is not needed for any steps that are about using existing installations more efficiently, keeping ahead of maintenance, or replacing bulbs with more efficient ones.
For changes that require some new installations, maybe better heating controls, installing a bike rack, or repairs to the building, List B permission will be needed from the Archdeacon. Parishes can apply for permission through an online application via the Online Faculty System (OFS). Please do not request permission from the Archdeacon direct, as List B approval can only be granted through the OFS.
If a step you wish to make will make a change to the character of the building, a faculty will be required, which is also made online via the OFS. This will include things like loft and roof insulation, secondary or double glazing, permanent subdivision or new rooms within the church, and heating and lighting schemes that replace existing ones.
If a step you wish to make changes the outside appearance, such as solar panels or EV car charging posts, separate planning permission is often needed.
Faculty changes (2022) and key guidance
The Faculty Jurisdiction (Amendment) Rules 2022, which came into effect in July 2022, require parishes and the DAC to have 'due regard' to guidance on net zero carbon issued by the Church of England, for those proposals where it applies. This requirement is applicable to both List B and faculty schemes.
From these Rules, the Church of England has directed that the following key pieces of guidance must be given due regard when relevant to your proposal:
- The Practical Path to Net Zero Carbon for Churches
- Heating Principles
- Heating Checklist (editable Word file)
- Heating Options Appraisals and Getting Advice
- Biomass Boilers
- Lighting
- Floodlighting
- Solar Panels
- Electric Vehicle Charging
These links are specific to particular types of proposals, and only the relevant guidance needs to be taken into account.
The Practical Path to Net Zero Carbon for Churches is included in the guidance and this must be given due regard for all proposals, as it provides the context to show that the proposal is part of a wider understanding by the parish of its route to net zero carbon.
Separately, the Church of England has jointly published with the Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Association (EASA) two sustainability and net zero carbon 'best practice' notes on:
This guidance should also be given due consideration by architects and surveyors conducting quinquennial inspections and planning new projects in churches.
Getting help...
If you have any queries regarding permission types, please contact the respective case officer:
List B:
Helen Cook, Assistant DAC Secretary
01543 221155 helen.cook@lichfield.anglican.org
Faculty:
Giles Standing, DAC Secretary
01543 221152 giles.standing@lichfield.anglican.org