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MP learns of Hook Norton Baptist Church renovation project
13/07/2021
Improving drainage, removing the causes of damp, levelling the floor and installing energy-efficient heating and insulation are needed at eighteen-century chapel
Banbury’s MP Victoria Prentis visited Hook Norton Baptist Church on Friday to learn more of their project to renovate the eighteenth-century Grade II-listed Georgian Chapel.
Dating back to 1774, the building is one of the older Georgian chapels in England. The planned renovation work will improve drainage, remove the causes of damp, level the floor and install energy-efficient heating and insulation, whilst bringing the building up to modern standards and regulations.
The programme of work is split into three phases, with the first phase addressing the exterior works together with installing a new porch door, levelling the floor and installing under-floor heating. A complete electrical re-wiring and the installation of energy efficient lighting in-keeping with the character of a Georgian chapel forms the second phase of the project. Phase three will see the restoration of the galleries and installation of improved seating.
It is hoped the renovation project will make the chapel fit for another 300 years.
It is estimated that the work will cost in the region of £415,000 in total, although the trustees are focusing on the first and second phases, at a cost of £325,000. They currently have 63% of the required funds available.
After meeting the Trustees Mrs Prentis said: “It was great to visit Hook Norton Baptist Church on Friday to find out what plans they have for the beautiful, Grade II-listed, Georgian Chapel.
“I met Pastor Peter Brookes and members of the congregation who gave me a tour of the Chapel. They explained that plans will include addressing the causes of damp, improve access for those with mobility issues, add thermal insulation, and install energy efficient heat and lighting.
“The work is expected to cost over £325,000 of which the Church has managed to raise two thirds so far. There is still lots of fundraising to do. I encourage anyone interested to get involved and help to restore this wonderful building.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam