The work so far....

Over the past four years, discussions have been going on to improve the facilities at St Mary's for the 21st century, and to improve the church's mission to the community. This subject has been raised over the decades too, as there was a plan put forward in the 1970's. It is quite a challenge as parts of the church go back to Saxon times, and it is situated in a conservation area. Various ideas have been shared and proposed over the years. After visiting several other churches who have undergone re-ordering and more discussions, a proposal was put to the congregation. A great deal of anxiety and stress has also been shared in order to do things right too! The outcome was that English Heritage and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, plus Rushcliffe Borough Council refused to permit any building outside the church. However, they would allow alterations internally, subject to being removable if required, without damaging the fabric of the church in the future. The proposal is to have an accessible toilet with baby changing facilities, plus a small tea-bar to provide drinks after services. These facilities will then comply with the Disability Act and the Health and Safety regulations. Due to the deterioration of the multi-level floor causing several trip hazards, the decision was taken to level the floor throughout the nave up to the chancel, thus removing the pews, the antiquated, inadequate heating system and installing under floor heating. The pews would be replaced by chairs. The changes have caused some exchanges of different views, and as ever the result is a compromise, which it is hoped everyone will be pleased with and will find welcoming. Following all the advice and procedures set out by the Diocese, and taking advice from the experts who are too many to mention, the Faculty was received from the Chancellor of the Diocese in June. Four contractors recommended by the Diocesan Advisory Committee have sent in their tender for the work. These were received on Tuesday, July 18th 2007 and are now being considered. Work continues to plan for the safe storage of the contents of the church.