Plans for the new building are proceeding well. We have short listed two possible contractors to complete the project and are in the final stages of completing a specification for the final design and configuration of the building.

In order for the demolition and building work to start, we have to have a Diocesan licence to make necessary changes to the access and pathways on the south side of the church. This has been applied for and once permission has been granted, we can enter into a formal contract with one of the contractors. There will be a 28 day consultation period during which members of the public can comment or question the proposed changes. You can find full details of the application and how it will affect the church yard here.

If all goes well, building can start in March or April of next year. Financially we are in good shape having so far received grants from:

• Swindon Borough Council     £230,000.
• Landfill Communities Trust     £50,778.
• Garfield Weston Foundation      £5,000.

The remainder of the funds required to complete the building will come from our own resources.

Plans include the provision of ground source heating and photo voltaic panels as well as high specification thermal insulation. This will make the centre highly energy efficient and consequently, cost effective to run.

The new centre will also feature a Garden Room at the east end that will allow us to offer hospitality to those visiting both the church and the burial ground. It will provide toilet and refreshment facilities as well as a garden of reflection and information area.

The final design for the interior is yet to be finalised but it will include a large hall, kitchen area, meeting rooms, storage area and will incorporate the Parish office at the west end.

We intend to appoint a community development manager who will promote and manage the centre and our other resources at St. Mary’s. This post has been made possible by a 3 year grant from the church commissioners. Applications for the post will be sought in January/February 2013. The successful applicant will play a significant role in shaping operational procedures, recruitment and marketing for the new centre and will be a major resource to enable us to connect more effectively with our local community.

We are always looking for offers of help – we are in particular need of assistance in applying for grants both for the Community centre and for the overall church renewal project. If you would like to be part of a team helping to deliver our church plan then please contact the parish office 01793 5228322 or email s.grosvenor@gmail.com and someone will contact you to discuss what needs to be done.