Parish church to have a £2-million makeover (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Parish church to have a £2-million makeover

CIRENCESTER Parish Church is being given a major face-lift for the first time in 150 years.

Architects have drawn up radical plans for the ancient building and the Church's planning regulators have given the £2 million project the green light.

Residents also have the chance to inspect the proposals before the builders come in shortly after Easter (April).

The plans, which include the installation of a new heating system, enclosed shop and stone floor, will be on show from the end of the month.

The Revd Michael St-John Channell said: "It's a wonderful project and has taken a huge amount of time to get right. Everyone at the church is really pleased because we have discussed it for several years and it has been quite difficult.

"Our plans are the most significant project at the church for 150 years and will see us all out.

"We are undertaking this not for ourselves but for future generations to come."

Some disruptions to normal services at the parish church are expected during the 18-month building period.

However, these will not be significant as the rebuilding of the stone floor will be executed in stages.

Part of the heating system will be installed under the floor and a glass draught excluder will allow more light into the church without the cold getting in.

There will also be a repositioning of the font and a complete reordering of the church shop.

Currently, the shop is an open area, but soon it will enclosed and expanded to include a kitchen.

Disabled access is another issue being tackled by shortening some pews to allow for wheelchairs.

Revd Michael is also delighted the organ will undergo a major restoration, which he says is "much-needed".

"It's been there just over 100 years in its present position and there are major works which need undertaking," he said.

People are encouraged to comment on the million pound project when the plans are put on show in the church, either in writing or verbally.

Revd Michael added: "Please encourage as many people as possible to share in the details of this important and exciting display, which will be up by February."