In UK, thousands of churches to be closed over next five years, survey says

The ancient Church of St. Eustace in Dorset, United Kingdom. Photo: Jon Avent/National Churches Trust

On October 8, 2025, the Christian Post published research data indicating that thousands of Christian churches in the United Kingdom may close over the next five years. The study was conducted by the charitable organization National Churches Trust (NCT), a U.K.-based charity focused on preserving historic places of worship.

The research, conducted in the spring of 2025 and covering more than 3,600 parishes in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, showed that about 5% of communities are uncertain about their future, with estimates projecting up to 2,000 closures by 2030. The main reasons cited are financial difficulties, a decline in the number of parishioners, and high maintenance costs for historic buildings.

Seven percent of respondents from the countryside anticipated that their churches would shut down, which would amount to roughly 900 closures in rural regions. Rural churches tend to face greater challenges in upkeep, volunteer recruitment and regular attendance.

Experts warn that the mass closure of churches will lead not only to a reduction in religious life but also to the loss of cultural heritage and social centers around which local communities have formed for decades.

Additional concern among observers is caused by the appointment of the new head of the Anglican Church – Sarah Mullally, known for her liberal views, including support for abortions and the promotion of the LGBT agenda. Commentators note that such a course will only exacerbate the crisis of trust and may accelerate the outflow of parishioners, especially in traditionally conservative regions of the country.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Anglicans worldwide unite against appointment of the female archbishop.

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