Argir church construction approved

The chair of Argir’s church council has welcomed government approval to begin building a new church in the village, though timing remains uncertain.

Culture Minister Bárður á Lakjuni granted permission this week for the Argir church council to proceed with construction, which has been under discussion for 22 years. The decision includes conditions requiring the council to ensure repayment of loans as quickly as possible, partly by collecting a local church tax in the parish.

Fróði Ólason Olsen, the council chair, said villagers will now contribute to the local church tax to help repay the loans. He had hoped construction could start in time for Argir’s 200th anniversary in May 2028, but acknowledged the timeline may now be tight.

The approval follows years of debate and media attention, with Olsen calling the decision a joyous day for Argir.