This ambitious project authorised by the PCC to repair and re-order various aspects of St Mary Magdalene is still in full swing despite the fact that the National Lottery Heritage Fund has closed it’s doors to new applications as a result of the current pandemic. The team, who are headed by our architect, Mark Goodwill Hodgson, our funding consultant, Alix Slater, together with Pat Mercer and Andrew Fearn, are working hard to put a formidable application together. We have just heard that it is likely that a new window for applications will be open from 8th Feb 2021 so it is full steam ahead. Once we have agreed the main aspects of the application, we will use the time to consult with the PCC and other interested organisations.
Of course, this is only our Round 1 bid by which we seek the Fund’s approval to work up a detailed scheme and gain relevant approvals. The current timescale means that it is unlikely that any of the work will start until late 2023.
In tandem with this application we are also trying to establish that the Strategic Development Fund of the Church of England will support the re-ordering aspect with a contribution of up to £350,000, notwithstanding the delay caused by the effects of the pandemic.
We have also been able to recruit a Steering Committee which includes representatives of some of our proposed strategic partners together with others who bring special skills to the project. Please speak to any of the church team if you wish to have any further information.
Andrew Fearn, Churchwarden
12 November, 2020