Bells and associated mechanisms require appropriate ongoing maintenance to keep them safe and working effectively.
The more routine elements of such work are listed as A or B List work, not requiring application for a faculty, but all significant work will have to go through the full faculty process.
Bell-ringing activity needs to be managed so that it does not cause undue disturbance to local communities. Useful practical guidance on this is available in the document Church Bells and the Law. Detailed advice: The Diocesan Bells Adviser is available to provide advice on particular schemes - please contact the DAC Secretary in the first instance. The Church Buildings Council has produced a code of practice on The Conservation and Repair of Bells and Bell Frames which sets out the technical aspects in very great detail.
There are significant issues that PCCs also need to consider (practical, structural, ethical and legal) regarding telecoms installations in bell towers and they should contact the DAC Office for detailed advice at an early stage.
Further Information
- Central Council of Bell Ringers - the representative body for all who ring bells in the English tradition with rope and wheel
- Chester Diocesan Guild of Bell Ringers - founded in 1887, and responsible for all aspects of church bell ringing in this area in which may be found some 114 Towers