More than £250m has been spent since 1991 on ensuring cathedrals across England remain in "good repair" and are more welcoming to visitors, according to a new study by English Heritage.

The English Heritage Cathedrals Fabric Condition Survey 2009 revealed that some of the most critical work has already been completed, although a further £100m of repairs will need to be carried out over the next 10 years. A total of six English cathedrals will carry out major repair programmes over the next decade, including a £16m scheme to overhaul Canterbury Cathedral in Kent, a £15m project at Salisbury Cathedral, Wiltshire, and the repair of Lincoln Cathedral costing at least £13m.

English Heritage chief executive Dr Simon Thurley said: ""Our new publication shows what can be achieved with the aid of English Heritage advice and by individual cathedrals working with their Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches' governing bodies. "Above all it shows that cathedrals continue to evolve, adding to their glories with a thriving tradition of commissioning the highest standards of new architecture, craftsmanship and design."