The aim of the project is to preserve the best of the building’s past whilst making it fully efficient and user-friendly for the future.  In particular, besides helping to conserve all parts of the building, a modern heating system will make it much more attractive for everyone, not least those who attend an increasing number of weddings in the church. 

Equally important, given that community demand for the use of St Mary’s church hall (which is spacious and fully equipped) has far outstripped its capacity in recent times, the Project will offer the locality much-needed, and much more flexible, extra meeting space for

     -  youth organisations;

    -  amateur dramatic or musical rehearsals or productions;

    -  local society meetings;

    -  conferences;  and

    -  other emerging community needs.

The intention is to start the main part of the Project late this autumn - notably completion of the new heating system and replacement of the floor, but also re-waterproofing of the roof, essential security and safety works, and the provision of disabled toilet facilities - and complete it in time for Easter 2009, with the remaining items to follow as soon as possible after that.  The building should then be fit for many more years of service.