Servicing both the church and hall, the Link has been the biggest and most expensive aspect of renewing our community halls.
The generosity of St Peter’s congregation and several charitable trusts have given the building a new lease of life. Particular thanks are due to:
Viridor Landfill Tax Credits, who funded the new flat roof
The Baird Trust, who part funded a wheelchair accessible lift
We are also very grateful for the expertise of:
Morham & Brotchie Quantity Surveyors
Irons Foulner Consulting Engineers
McGregor McMahon Consulting Engineers
Joining the church to the halls and providing kitchen and toilets for both buildings is the Link. Refurbishing this is the biggest (and most expensive) part of our project.
Problems with the old Link
The flat roof had been repaired numerous times but was well past its expected lifespan. Water cascaded down the walls in places with heavy rain
The opening through the church narthex was only 61 cms wide.
Access between the two buildings was up and down a narrow turnpike staircase
For people with limited mobility it was difficult to get up the stairs to the church and choir vestry, impossible for people in wheelchairs
The four toilets were cold and shabby
With no insulation it was difficult to heat in winter
Things the Link has going for it
Bright light upstairs room suitable for 30 people to meet
Large kitchen
Toilets and drainage
Direct access from a small car park
Direct connection between the hall and church buildings
Solving the problems with the Link
Replacing the holey flat roof with a new one
Adding six clean new toilets (one accessible) all on one level
Increasing the size of the opening between the two buildings and doing away with the up/down steps
Adding a wide staircase
Adding a wheelchair lift
Opening up sightlines so people can easily see where they’re headed
To acheive this the choir vestry will move from its present position to over the kitchen – and at last the choir can rehearse in a warm dry room that we’ll be able to open up to other groups
Results we’re hoping for
Both the halls and church are clean, warm, welcoming buildings where people want to gather
A space that’s easy to navigate for people with reduce mobility
A light, bright, accessible and dry room where small and medium groups want to meet
Increased numbers of individuals and groups benefitting from activities in our halls
With more toilets we can extend our license to have more events happening at once
Older members of our congregation find it easier to get into church
Concerts and other events happening in the church on the six days a week it’s not used for worship