A Richmond church is set to receive nearly £680,000 in grants to save it from disrepair.

Historic England has awarded grant funding worth more than £1million to three listed buildings in London which are all currently on the Heritage at Risk Register.

St Richard's Church in Ham will get £428,384 to pay for the installation of structural support to safeguard the post-war building's roof until further essential repairs can be carried out.

In addition, the National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded a grant of £248,000 to prepare plans for comprehensive repairs which cost £3million, expected to begin in 2027.

Simon Coupland, Vicar at St Richard's Ham, said: "We love our iconic 1960s church but desperately need to keep the rain out and repair the damage it's caused, so we're incredibly grateful to Historic England for their generous grant.

"This will prevent further deterioration and let the building dry out, ready for the restoration work planned for 2027/8.

"It also keeps the church open for the community until that work takes place."

The Church of St Richard, Ham, was designed by post-war Modernist architect Ralph Covell, who was known for his innovative designs including over twenty churches in the Diocese of Southwark.

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Tom Foxall, Regional Director at Historic England, said: "These three special buildings are not only beautiful historic places in need of urgent funding for repairs, but they are all essential to their local communities as important places to meet, bond, worship in and enjoy.

"We're proud to step in to help ensure people can continue to benefit from these magnificent spaces and take pride in the remarkable heritage on their doorstep.

"Working in partnership with The National Lottery Heritage Fund and other generous supporters means our money can go further and essential repairs are completed sooner."

St Richard's was listed in 2024 on account of its innovative 1960s architecture, superb 'dalle de verre' window glass, and Star of David–shaped plan, which is thought to be unique.

However, its complex and striking hyperbolic paraboloid roof structure has failed and the building needs urgent structural support.

Part of the roof is already supported by scaffolding, but the church has had to be closed until further propping is put in place.

Stuart McLeod, Director of England - London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, commented: "London's historic churches sit at the heart of our communities, shaping the places where people come together and share in their local heritage.

"By working in close partnership with Historic England, we're able to maximise the impact of National Lottery investment and ensure that these much‑loved buildings receive the urgent care they need.

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"Together, we're not only safeguarding remarkable heritage but helping these historic places of worship to continue to serve as vibrant, welcoming spaces for everyone, securing their future for generations to come."

Other buildings receiving grants from Historic England include former Sunday School at Union Chapel, Islington (£172,274) and St Andrew's Church, Thornhill Square, Islington (£431,804).

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