Built at the beginning of the 20th century and listed as a Historic Monument in 2022, Sainte-Catherine Church is a local architectural gem. With its 60 meter high bell tower and its medieval and Renaissance stained glass windows, it watches over Villeneuve-sur-Lot and constitutes a showcase for the city.
However, the church suffers the ravages of time: water infiltration, damaged frames, facades covered with moss, etc. “The restoration is essential to the survival of the building, which represents part of the identity of Villeneuve-sur-Lot”insists Gérard Régnier, mayor of the town. The work, which began in the summer of 2024, will initially focus on repairing the roofs, facades and high stained glass windows. Planned over several years, this restoration is part of a program divided into seven phases. If all goes as planned, the church will temporarily reopen its doors for Christmas Mass 2025.
Mobilize individuals and businesses
Despite the support of the State, the Region and the Department, the cost of the work remains significant. The City, in partnership with the Heritage Foundation, hopes to mobilize individuals, businesses and associations around this common objective. The campaign aims to raise €100,000 over three years. Philippe Gonzales, territorial delegate for the Heritage Foundation, “hope this will be a flagship collection. Succeeding here could inspire other projects, even in more modest villages. »
To encourage donations, significant tax advantages are planned: reduction in income tax, on real estate wealth and even on corporate tax. Donors will also be thanked by invitations to shows during the theater season, or by privileged visits to the construction site, depending on a certain level.
Support already well underway
The Heritage Patrons Club, which brings together companies from various sectors, currently in Agenais, made an initial contribution of €15,000. Active since 2019, this collective has already supported several regional projects, such as the restoration of the altarpiece of the Saint-Pierre church in Castillonnès or the statue of Jasmine in Agen.
Today, the club is looking to expand by recruiting one or two local companies to represent Villeneuve-sur-Lot and strengthen its support. This collective also highlights the advantages for patrons: “Getting involved in a heritage project not only means benefiting from tax reductions, but also sharing moments of conviviality around a common heritage. »
How to participate?
Donations can be made online, by check or via town hall. All the necessary information is accessible on the official website of the city or that of the Heritage Foundation. By launching this donation campaign, the City is determined to show that preserving its history is everyone’s business. The financing site has been open since Tuesday, November 26.
