The Diocese of York and the Church Commissioners for England have confirmed that The Orthodox Community of St Constantine the Great have made an expression of interest in purchasing the closed church building of St Martin cum Gregory, Micklegate, York and is now seeking to raise the necessary funds.
The Grade I listed church, which dates back to the eleventh century, was closed for public worship in August 2003. It was later leased to The Stained Glass Trust on a nominal (peppercorn) rent to enable the opening of a national centre for stained glass, but the organisation’s tenancy will soon be coming to an end.
Last year, personnel from the Diocese and the Commissioners met with representatives from City of York Council, members of the local clergy, and key stakeholders to discuss the future of the closed church building.
The Diocese of York has agreed a temporary window of six months for The Orthodox Community of St Constantine the Great to raise the sums required so that they may make a formal offer on the building. Any future use of St Martin cum Gregory will be subject to a statutory public consultation in line with the provisions set out under the Mission and Pastoral Measure 2011.
Proceeds from the sale will enable the Church of England to invest in furthering its mission and ministry across the Diocese of York.
