Our Heritage Fund Project
Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund: preserving and sharing over 160 years of history.
Our Heritage Fund Project
Christ Church sits at the centre of Biddulph Moor village, renowned for its beauty and rich history. Established in 1863, it owes much of its existence to James Bateman, a local philanthropist and horticulturalist, whose generosity ensured both a Church of England church and school could be built on the moor.
For over 160 years, Christ Church has been dedicated to supporting the local community, offering both spiritual guidance and practical assistance. Our aim is for everyone to have access to the church’s rich history and to participate in its events and activities.
We are delighted to have received a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund,Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Staffordshire Historic Churches Trust.This funding is being used with funds raised by the church congregation for essential repairs to the church and to support a range of events and activities designed to benefit the church community
Thanks to National Lottery players
Our Five Project Strands
The Heritage Fund project covers five key areas, each contributing to the preservation and celebration of Christ Church and its community.
Church Repairs
In ProgressConstructed with local materials by skilled craftsmen, Christ Church stands out for its Italian-inspired architectural design. Like many historic buildings, some of the original masonry has deteriorated. We are installing hidden Secret Gutters - channels encased in mortar that carry water away from the roof and walls.
Repairs are expected to take around six weeks. There will be no visible changes as the gutters are hidden.
Church Restoration — Project Update
9 May 2026Community Engagement
In ProgressThis strand seeks to answer questions about the church history through public events where you can discover more about the church history and heritage.
Community Activity — Getting Involved
9 May 2026Educational Activities
PlannedWe will organise events for Moor First School pupils and members of local Scouts and Guiding groups during 2026 and 2027.
Work with Children and Young People
9 May 2026Expanded Website
CompleteWe have expanded our website to provide more information about the church history and heritage, details about church events, and a virtual 3D tour highlighting key historic features.
The new website is live, featuring history pages, a virtual tour, and downloadable resources.
Church Grounds & Biodiversity
PlannedOver the next two years, we aim to learn more about the wildlife inhabiting the churchyard and manage the grounds in ways that enhance and protect biodiversity.
Environment and Online — Connecting With Our Heritage
9 May 2026
About The National Lottery Heritage Fund
The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest funder for the UK’s heritage. Using money raised by National Lottery players we support projects that connect people and communities to heritage. Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. From historic buildings, our industrial legacy and the natural environment, to collections, traditions, stories and more. We believe in the power of heritage to ignite the imagination, offer joy and inspiration, and to build pride in place and connection to the past. heritagefund.org.uk
How You Can Participate
In addition to attending events, there are several ways you can participate in the heritage project:
Share Your Memories
Contribute to the church's ongoing heritage by sharing your memories, photographs or thoughts. Every story helps us build a fuller picture of life in Biddulph Moor.
Attend Our Events
Learn more about the planned work and discover how you can join in by attending our community events and activities.
Support the Church
Support the church's upkeep and activities with a financial contribution. Every gift, however small, makes a difference.
About The National Lottery Heritage Fund
The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest funder for the UK’s heritage. Using money raised by National Lottery players we support projects that connect people and communities to heritage. Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. From historic buildings, our industrial legacy and the natural environment, to collections, traditions, stories and more.
Visit heritagefund.org.uk →
Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK heritage. The Christ Church Biddulph Moor Heritage Project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to research, document and share over 160 years of Christ Church and village history.