Wells Cathedral has received a significant £800,000 grant from The Julia Rausing Trust to support the restoration of Vicars' Close, Europe's oldest intact medieval street still used for its original purpose.

The grant halves the remaining fundraising target for the £7.1 million project, with just under £800,000 left to raise. The restoration will safeguard the future of the historic site while making it accessible to the public for the first time in its centuries-old history.

Dean of Wells, Toby Wright, expressed his gratitude for the support, saying:

"We are immensely grateful for the generous support of The Julia Rausing Trust, which enables us to undertake urgent repair work on Vicars' Close and open it up to the public.

"Vicars' Close has been integral to the history and fine choral tradition of Wells Cathedral for centuries, housing the Cathedral's adult choir since its construction in 1348. Its continuity of use is incredibly rare, and as a group of buildings, it is possibly without parallel.

"This crucial project will create a legacy that safeguards the future of this extraordinary heritage while providing an exciting new visitor experience and programme of events to uncover and celebrate this remarkable place. We are thrilled to be working with The Julia Rausing Trust and involving apprentices, young people, and local communities in preserving this world-renowned site."

The Chapter of Wells will continue fundraising efforts to meet the final target. Those wishing to support the project can donate via the JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/campaign/vicarsclose.

Vicars' Close is considered a site of international architectural significance. The restoration, titled Vicars' Close: A Medieval Street Singing Through the Centuries, will not only preserve the street but introduce innovative engagement programmes co-created with groups across Somerset.

To learn more or offer support, contact [email protected] or visit www.wellscathedral.org.uk/vicarsclose.