Think tank proposal suggests repurposing old churches into social housing for 7,000 Welsh homes amid housing crisis.
The Foundation thinks 70% more could close soon. Using these buildings helps the housing crisis and stops them from falling apart, as many Welsh families need affordable housing.
Wales had about 3,200 worship places in 2021, including temples, mosques, and synagogues. Ten percent of these are in bad shape now. Faith groups also own land, halls, and buildings. They could build over 1,300 homes in old churches and 5,500 more on faith-owned land.
A former Archbishop supports reusing these buildings, finding the alternative of letting them become ruins unattractive. Building new facilities sometimes works better. He leads Housing Justice Cymru, which helps the Church provide affordable housing and is working to redevelop churches in Cardiff.
Some Welsh chapels are now homes or rentals, while others serve different purposes after changes. One is an art studio, another a pottery studio and community space, and a venue serves as a pop-up restaurant and bar.
The Bevan Foundation said social housing is lacking. Finding good land for new homes is hard because many sites are unsuitable or poorly located. Owners may not want to sell properties, and high land costs make projects hard too.
Redeveloping churches has challenges like cost, and gaining legal permissions can also be difficult. Still, the Foundation said the idea has merit, as this prevents buildings from becoming eyesores.
A strategic plan needs support from many groups, including the Welsh Government and councils. The Church in Wales owns the most property of all. More funds are needed for this purpose to be realized, and a new group should manage potential sites. Planning rules need flexibility for old buildings.
Wendy Dearden said opportunities get dismissed as too difficult. She believes we must consider every option because social housing and development sites are scarce.