Diocesan Advisory Committee and Church Buildings

The Diocesan Advisory Committee (the DAC) is a statutory diocesan committee appointed by the Bishop. It offers advice to Parochial Church Councils (PCCs) and the Chancellor of the Diocese and Archdeacons, in relation to proposed works and matters affecting church buildings, their contents and churchyards, having due regard to the role of a church as a local centre of worship and mission. It also advises on the care and development of church buildings more generally.

One of its main roles is in advising the Chancellor of the Diocese and Archdeacons in relation to applications for Faculties and List B permissions to authorise works and matters affecting church buildings, their contents and churchyards. The final decision in relation to faculty applications lies with the Diocesan Chancellor.

The DAC is made up of members from a range of backgrounds, appointed for their knowledge and expertise in the care and use of church buildings. These include architects/surveyors, priests and laity, conservation, archaeology and architectural history professionals and those with knowledge in relation to organs, building works and project management. They also include nominees from Historic England, the National Amenity Societies and Local Authorities.

The work of the DAC is also supported by a number of specialist advisors. Members and advisors undertake their work for the DAC on a voluntary basis.

The work of the DAC is facilitated by the DAC Secretary who can be contacted for information and advice in relation to church buildings works, alterations to the fabric of the church building, the permissions processes and obtaining advice from the DAC. Contact details are at the bottom of this page.

DAC Meeting Dates

DAC meetings can only be attended by those on the DAC Board.

Agenda Deadline	Meeting
29 September 2026	13 October 2026
3 November 2026	17 November 2026
5 January 2027	19 January 2027
16 February 2027	2 March 2027
6 April 2027	20 April 2027
25 May 2027	8 June 2027
6 July 2027	20 July 2027
24 August 2027	7 or 14 September
19 October 2027	2 November 2027

Quinquennial Inspection

The diocese offers a grant of £650 as a contribution towards the cost of the quinquennial inspection of its churches.

To apply, please send a copy of the quinquennial inspector’s invoice, with a covering email requesting the grant, to emily.elliott@peterborough-diocese.org.uk

Please be aware that the process for appointing a Quinquennial Inspector has changed, information on the changes can be found here: Appointing a Quinquennial Inspector

Advice and Guidance

The following websites provide some helpful general advice and guidance, which may assist you in the care of your church building/churchyard and may assist you in creating a proposal for the DAC to review.

Church of England – How We Manage Our Buildings

Advice and guidance for church buildings | The Church of England

Statements of significance and needs | The Church of England

Net Zero Carbon Church | The Church of England

Ecclesiastical Insurance Church Guides

Historic England

Church of England Conservation Grants

Peterborough Diocesan Registry

If you are still unsure after reviewing the available information, please contact either Emily or Kieran, contact details are found towards the bottom of the page.

DAC Site Visit Dates

If you are considering undertaking a develop project within your church, such as the installation of a toilet, servery, or other invasive works, please contact the DAC Secretary, Emily Elliott: Emily.Elliott@peterborough-diocese.org.uk to book a DAC visit .