Parsonage Houses and Housing Policy - General Principles

General Principles

As a principle it is accepted that due to the public nature of the work of clergy it is important that private space be provided.

1. The Diocese will provide housing for the Incumbent/Team Vicar/Priest-in-charge in accordance with the Parsonages Measures and Green Guide. This is typically a 4-bedroom house with two bathroom, kitchen/diner, dining room, living room, study and a garage, although it has to be accepted that we are constrained by the property that is actually available in a parish. For example the provision of a garage in many parts of the Diocese is unlikely.
2. If the existing house does not provided accommodation that is closely in line with the guide the Diocese will endeavour to alter the existing house of find an alternative that is more suitable.
3. If an existing house is larger than the Green Guide an alternative house or division will be pursued. The feasibility study of the proposed alterations will include pastoral and value considerations.
4. If a house is larger than "Green Guide", and the PCC wishes to retain the house, this can be achieved by the PCC paying the difference between the cost of having a Green Guide House in the locality compared to he current property, including the cost of the capital. A formal agreement between the parish and Diocese will be drawn up and signed. Where such a proposal could lead to a conflict of interest between the LDF and the parish the latter will be encouraged to seek independent advice.
5. If the present or future incumbent/priest-in-charge agrees to allow part of a parsonage to be used for PCC purposes, e.g. parish office, then a formal agreement between the PCC; present incumbent/team vicar/priest-in-charge and the Diocese will be drawn up and signed. This will include the clause that when the present incumbent/team vicar/priest-in-charge leaves, the parish will vacate the property if required.
6. If the house is larger than required and the PCC wishes to use some of the space and a division is possible, the part of the house to be used by the parish should be transferred to the LDF. A formal lease between the parish and the Diocese for the use of this space will be drawn up and signed. Alternatively, in specific situations, the Diocese might be able to offer the PCC the option to purchase al long leasehold or freehold interest of the divided section at market value.
7. Rental income or capital, from the sale of part of an existing parsonage house, will be credited to the Diocesan Parsonage Reserve Account, for the maintenance of existing or provision of new parsonages.