£40k grant helps refurbish Garden City church

The second phase of a project to refurbish a church has been completed thanks to a £40,000 grant from The Veolia Environmental Trust.

Picture: www.churches-uk-ireland.org

 
St Andrew’s Church in Garden City, Deeside, is currently being revamped to create a dual-purpose facility that serves as a community space for groups, activities and events, as well as a place for worship.
 
The second phase of work included improvements to the community space such as an extension for new disabled toilet facilities, a new kitchen, and works to the flat roof. A new heating installation has also been installed, making the space more comfortable and energy-efficient.
 
Phase 3, which is currently under way, will refurbish the hall floor and the sanctuary area, resurface the car park, and install a full-height sliding partition to zone off the community area.
 
The work will also include the development of a smaller meeting room featuring a computer suite, which the church hopes will be used for events and meetings by smaller local groups, businesses and organisations.
 
Discussions are also taking place regarding a further phase, which might include works to the church’s windows, ceiling, cavity wall insulation, additional lighting, and redecoration. This is expected to be completed by the end of this year, subject to additional funding.
 
The recent closure of the local chapel, snooker hall and library means that community space in Garden City was very limited, so the improvements to the church will make a real difference to residents.
 
The new facility will also benefit the neighbouring community of Sealand Manor, as its community centre has recently closed.
 
Reverend Steven Green said:

“We are delighted with the progress of the project so far. The Parochial Church Council want to provide a modern facility in the heart of the community that offers a wide range of services and can be embraced by the local community, community groups, organisations and businesses alike.”
 
Funding for Phase 2 of the project has come from several sources including The Veolia Environmental Trust, who awarded the £40,000 grant through the Landfill Communities Fund.
 
Paul Taylor, the executive director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, said:

“It is great to hear about the latest developments with this important project. I look forward to seeing the completed results.”