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Q. What's the latest news? - click here for update
Q. How can i give to the project? click here
Q. Don't we have enough faciliites already?
No. Regular loo queues show the total inadequacy of toilets built last century for fewer people. There is also currently no proper toilet access for people with disabilities. The rooms we hire from the Board for Schools to supplement our own, also have only one toilet, which is outside and very difficult to access!
Currently, our kitchen is within one of the main meeting rooms. This makes it unavailable to others when that room is in use.
Currently, our main counselling room is also used as a multiple storage area, creating a messy and distracting environment.
The Redevelopment will directly address all of these issues.
Q. Why can't we put up with what we have?
At present, when we have a kids’ club we have to pray for good weather because we absolutely depend on using outside space. This is a highly precarious situation brought about by lack of just one more large area for craft or games.
At present, the foyer is extremely congested after services, during the Open Door Meal, and when toddler groups are running. This is both inconvenient, and confusing, as well as unwelcoming.
Q. We talk about needing more space, but the existing church isn't full.
At present, there are many ideas for our Open Door Meal which simply cannot be executed - not because we lack manpower or need, but simply because of space restrictions.
At present, we are unable to find space to fit a permanent book facility, even though money has been donated for one.
At present, we cannot always find good venues for small church meetings such as home groups, and our Alpha discussion groups have to take place in the church itself.
Q. Who else will benefit from the Redevelopment?
We are currently inundated with requests from local groups to book rooms of all sizes. Often the diary is full and people have to be turned down. The rooms we do have available are also not always the right size, so small numbers of people might be meeting in the middle of a large room.
The Redevelopment will increase the number, variety and suitability of rooms available, thus providing relational opportunities with local people.
Q. Who manages the project?
In addition to the Project Manager (Esther Broughton, Church Warden and member of the congregation for over ten years), the Building Project Committee (BPC) Julia, Martin E and Dillon (Qualified Architects) and Carrie meet regularly. Esther and Carrie (who has over ten years marketing experience in the non profit sector with successful experience of capital fundraising) work two days a week each.
Q. Who are the BPC accountable to?
The PCC (elected by the congregation of the church in spring each year) consider and approve all major budget and strategic decisions put to them by the BPC before they can go ahead.
Q. How long will it take?
Renewal began on the buildings in 2009. It is expected that Redevelopment work will be complete by our 150th Anniversary, 2011.
Q. How much will it cost?
Redevelopment costs are estimated at £500,000. Cleaning and conservation of the interior is quoted at £400,000.
Q. Is it sustainable long term?
By improving the energy efficiency of our heating systems, we will reduce running costs for the future. Improved space available for external bookings will also provide enhanced income streams from community and commercial organisations looking for central London venues.
Q. How do I donate to the Renewal Appeal
Online through our partners justgiving http://www.justgiving.com/sjtl
To see all giving options click here.
Q. Is it wise to undertake such a project during a recession?
As the financial climate worsened in the summer of 2008, this issue was seriously considered. But God has been showing us to persevere and to complete the work he has asked of St James the Less at this time. The Renewal is as crucial now as ever- providing a hub that will benefit this community as well as future generations.
Q. I have further questions?
Let Esther, Carrie, Martin or Julia know or come along to the Wednesday lunch time prayers. 12.30 - 1.15pm
To donate to the Building Project click here.
To see how to Make the Restoration & Development Happen click here.
(To download a pdf file of the "vision-brief-need-feasibility" pages click here.) work in progress
(To return to the Vision & Giving page click here.) work in progress
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