£300,000 is needed by the end of March 2025 to secure the future of Peterborough Cathedral amid "significant financial demands" including a £2 million annual running cost.
An urgent fundraising appeal has been launched as rising price of energy, staff costs, and essential repairs have created "immense" pressure on the Grade I listed cathedral’s resources.
If unsuccessful, the cathedral may no longer be able to keep its doors open seven days a week to welcome visitors, host events, or provide a space for prayer and reflection.
Operating with a small amount of grant funding from the church and none from the Government, the cathedral relies heavily on the generosity of visitors, supporters, and its own commercial activities.
Despite a record-breaking year of events, including the popular Monsters of the Sea exhibition, these efforts reportedly cannot keep pace with escalating costs.
The annual running costs now exceed £2 million, making community support essential to the cathedral’s survival.
A launch event took place at the cathedral this morning with the Dean and a range of high-profile supporters, community leaders and representatives from across the Diocese in attendance.
Money raised would go towards maintaining worship and musical programmes, continuing educational initiatives and carrying out essential repairs.
The Very Reverend Christopher Dalliston, Dean of Peterborough Cathedral, said: "This cathedral has been at the heart of Peterborough and the diocese for nearly 1,400 years.
"It belongs to everyone in this city and beyond. We urgently need your support to keep its doors open and ensure it remains a place of inspiration and sanctuary for all."
A spokesperson for Peterborough Cathedral, which was founded in 654 AD, added: "The cathedral faces a critical challenge.
"Losing it would mean losing not just a cherished piece of our city’s identity but a place that belongs to all of us - a place that has served as a cornerstone of community life for generations.
"It would also have a significant impact on the dwindling footfall in Peterborough city centre and already struggling businesses.
"As one of England’s most significant medieval abbeys and the burial place of queens - Mary, Queen of Scots, and Katharine of Aragon - it stands as a testament to our shared past.
"Today, it welcomes thousands of people each year for worship, education, and community gatherings, playing a vital role in city life and drawing visitors who energize our local economy."
To donate or learn more about the appeal, visit https://donate.kindlink.com/Chapter-of-Peterborough-Cathedral/7703
Donations can also be made by sending a cheque payable to Peterborough Cathedral Chapter, The Cathedral Office, Minster Precincts, Peterborough PE1 1XS or in person at the cathedral.
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