A historic East Sussex landmark has been confirmed as “saved” after receiving a substantial £4.5 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The funding has been awarded to Hastings’ Holy Trinity (HTH) Church, a prominent Grade II*-listed town centre building that had been facing an increasing risk of loss due to deterioration. The grant will underpin what the church described as the “most ambitious” restoration project in the area’s history.

The Gothic Revival structure requires urgent intervention, and the multi-million-pound investment is designated for vital repairs to its sandstone walls, stained glass windows, and rainwater goods, alongside the restoration of its war memorial. The project will also focus on improving accessibility and general facilities within the church.

Jerry Hocking, heritage lead for HTH Church, expressed his delight at the announcement, saying he was “thrilled” by the news that secures the future of the building. The grant was supplemented by an additional £420,000 sourced from various charitable trusts and donors.

Beyond the structural repairs, the initiative is set to involve the wider community, with plans for 200 volunteers and a programme of 167 annual activities. These community-focused events will include conservation sessions, storytelling, creative workshops, school projects, oral history initiatives, and open days.

HTH Vicar Simon Larkin underscored the significance of the achievement for the local area.

“This is hugely important in the life of our church and community and will make a lasting difference to our town,” Mr. Larkin stated. He concluded with an optimistic appraisal of the church’s revived status, adding, “This church, once at risk of closure, is now fully alive and a place of hope and inspiration for so many.”