PCC News

As a reminder, items on List A can be carried out without any diocesan permission, List B works require the archdeacon’s approval, and practically everything else needs a full faculty.

At its sitting in February, the General Synod agreed changes to the faculty system to make it easier for PCCs to respond to the Church of England’s target of being net zero carbon by 2030. If agreed by Parliament, the changes will take effect on 1 July 2022.

Bishop Graham, who is the Church of England’s lead bishop on environmental issues, said

“Our parish churches can be exemplars, leading the way in communities, for sustainable living. Yes, it is going to be a challenge, but so is any aspect of living the Gospel. It’s a challenge we must step up to. The new rules offer encouragement to parishes to rise to this challenge by deregulating a range of actions, some small, some bigger, all of which can help us move in the right direction.”

When approved, the revised Lists will be added to the diocesan website. The changes will include making it easier for PCCs to insulate pipes, draft-proof doors and windows, add electric pew heaters, electric car charging points and install new non-fossil fuel boilers. Like-for-like fossilfuel boilers and new oil tanks, previously on List B, will now require a full faculty.

The Norwich DAC is ready to engage with PCCs looking to change their existing heating system. Adam Simpson has recently been appointed as a heating specialist to advise the DAC on proposals submitted by PCCs.