A PLAN to turn a historic church into a community hub has taken a step forward after securing funding to explore opportunities.

Last year, the Wilton Community Land Trust (CLT) and Wilton Parochial Church Council (PCC) announced the potential to repurpose St Peter’s Church, in Fugglestone, through the Wilton Sunrise Project.

The project has now secured initial National Lottery Heritage Fund funding for its pre-development phase – a crucial boost in the journey to transform the historic building into a multi-use community hub.

It emerged from consultations held in early 2023, including two open days at St Peter’s and a community survey targeting residents.

The survey revealed strong support (84.5%) for repurposing the church into a community facility, with suggestions ranging from musical rehearsal space to children’s activities and life ceremonies, catering to both faith and non-faith events.

It comes as St Peter’s is at risk of falling into further disrepair due to the lack of regular religious services and basic amenities like heating and lighting.

The project aims to preserve the church’s role as a place of worship while transforming it into a vital community hub, especially for Wilton Hill, a nearby area with few amenities. The building’s historical significance, including its connection to George Herbert, the famous poet and notable musician, enhances its potential as a cultural venue for music performances and other events.

The Lottery funding will help the group explore the next stages of the Wilton Sunrise Project, ensuring the church can continue to serve the community while remaining open for public enjoyment and historical appreciation.

Neil Prigent, chair of the Wilton Community Land Trust, said: “Hearing the news of the funding that has now being agreed we can go ahead with our public meeting to inform the community of our progress and plans and importantly to further engage so that we can have various working groups focused on specific aspects of the project.”

The meeting will take place at the Michael Herbert Hall, Wilton, on Saturday, November 2, from 10am for a 10.30am, until noon.