Built in the 1864 this wonderful building had sadly become under used in recent years. The Parish Council entered into discussion to secure the building as an asset for the community in 2022.
In order to manage the sale, a solicitor was appointed to organise the legal transfer of ownership from the Church to the Council. This took a long time, and involved a great deal of paperwork, during which Planning Permission was sought for the building to be used as a commercial premises.
Whilst this historic building was used as Methodist Church since 1864, and it is located in a Conservation Area, the building is not listed. In 1998 an internal extension was added and included a kitchen, toilets, and first floor office.Whilst the building was maintained, and used occasionally by local groups - there was not a significant use of the building.
In the main hall the lights were not bright enough for meetings, the windows were painted shut. The toilets were narrow, poorly lit and needed maintenance, and the floors were suffering from damp and leaks. The floor to the hall needed remedial work, and there were three layers of carpet to remove. The building had been looked after but was calling out for a fresh look and an updated purpose.
Crescent Architects presented ideas to the working group, to revitalise the space, and helped pick the best bits from the proposals. The schemes considered the potential uses for the building, and looked to provide flexible use, whilst respecting the history of the former church.
The renovation work has involved:
• the floors being lifted repaired and replaced
• new lighting through out
• construction to the first floor office of a private office, small kitchen and WC
• alterations to the ground floor to provide accessible facilities with two completely new toilets
Over time this building will evolve to incorporate community groups, support local events, and provide additional asset to the village, whilst maintaining a historic building.
• Future works will include renovation to the exterior
• Replacement of the windows to improve energy efficiency
• Alterations to the kitchen to support local events, and improve the current facilities including a servery/ tea point
• Suitable furniture and technology upgrades to support local groups
PJS Joinery and Shop Fitting Ltd was appointed to undertake the work using a formal contract, and ensuring the Local Authority complied with Building Regulations requirements, and Health and Safety Legislation, overseen by Crescent Architects Ltd and the Working Group.The works commenced on 3rd April and were completed by 7th June 2024.
• Replacement lighting can be dimmed to suit the occupants.
• Commercial grade floor will be easier to maintain and keep clean
• Larger accessible toilet facilities will provide flexibility of use for all.
• Mirrors and additional fixtures are due to be installed in the WCs to complete the works, with future plans to update and install additional aids for improved accessibility.
“We were extremely pleased with their professional and helpful attitude to our project. Highly Recommended”
“Suzanne was just the Architect we needed, she produced a number of options to match our brief and guided us clearly through our selection process without trying to push her own agenda. Her proposals were exciting, innovative and sympathetic to the character of the original house.”
“Suzanne introduced a very professional and impressive architectral practice. The only barrier to using Suzanne’s services on this occasion was that her quoted fees were a bit more than we had budgeted for on our small project.”