Wells’ iconic Vicars’ Close needs immediate funding to prevent decay
Wells: An iconic street in the UK is in serious trouble. Vicars’ Close, with its beautiful medieval houses, is facing decay without some urgent cash. These homes have stood next to Wells Cathedral for over 650 years.
Right now, choir singers live in these houses, and they’re hoping for some much-needed restoration. Matthew Minter, a resident and singer, loves living there. He calls it a unique place, but he’s also worried about the cold, drafty windows, and a leaky roof.
The cathedral is trying to raise funds to fix up the Grade-1 listed homes. They want to re-roof, add insulation, and improve drainage. Plus, they’re looking to open two houses as a visitor center to celebrate the area’s rich history.
Thanks to a £4.4 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and £1.9 million from other sources, they’re making progress. But they still need more to hit the £7 million goal.
The cathedral’s dean, Toby Wright, is sounding the alarm. If the houses keep falling apart, the choir singers might have to move. He’s worried about failing roofs and windows, saying, “If we don’t look after this treasure, we’re going to lose it.”
Vicars’ Close has a fascinating history. Built in 1348, it was designed for choir members
