The Church of England is facing accusations of ageism over controversial proposals to close a historic church in Bournemouth, a move that would disproportionately impact its elderly congregation.
A Shocking Announcement for a Loyal Flock
The future of St Augustine's Church in Bournemouth, Dorset, is under threat after church authorities deemed it no longer viable. The decision, driven by low attendance figures and financial pressures, was communicated to the stunned congregation in a note inserted with their Sunday service prayers. The note revealed that the Parochial Church Council will vote on the closure at the end of January 2026.
The Grade II listed building, which has served the community for more than 130 years, is home to a loyal band of approximately 30 regular attendees. The congregation is predominantly aged in their 70s and above, with some members in their 90s.
Veteran Leads the Fight Against 'Ageist' Decision
Leading the opposition is 83-year-old army veteran David Agar, the Deanery Synod representative for St Augustine's. Mr Agar, a former Army Major who commanded Gurkha battalions and served during the Malayan Emergency, has vowed to fight any closure. He first attended the church aged 11 and has worshipped there all his life, barring time spent on military service.
He argues that the church's location at Cemetery Junction, served by numerous bus routes, provides vital access for elderly parishioners who would struggle to reach alternative places of worship. "For elderly people, access is absolutely vital," he stated. "They think we have had our fights, our lives, you could say it is ageist. They think we are easy to bully."
Architectural Heritage and Wider Church Changes
Beyond the immediate community impact, the potential loss of St Augustine's would also erase a piece of local heritage. The church's foundation stone was laid in 1891 and it was consecrated the following year. It was designed by renowned architect William Butterfield and contains a World War One memorial font among other commemorative features.
Mr Agar also criticised what he sees as broader, problematic shifts within the national church. "There’s a move nationally to get rid of the old structure and reduce the number of stipendiary clergy," he added. "It’s an absolute mess. I’d like to preserve our church, which has architectural value."
The church is part of the Bournemouth Town Centre Parish, alongside St Peter’s and St Stephen’s, and falls under the Diocese of Winchester. Both the parish and the Church of England have been approached for comment on the growing controversy.
