Church Reordering in Herefordshire
St. James’ Church in north Herefordshire dates from the 12th Century, the building has been adapted throughout its history serving the community around it. The church was one of the final repair and church reordering projects carried out by eminent Church Architect, G.F Bodley. The interior boasts an extravagantly painted Nave, decorated Chancel ceiling and other decorative embellishments typical of high Victorian architecture.
KODA architects were appointed to carry out a sketch scheme for a Church Reordering project to assist in obtaining grant funding for the project. Following a measured survey and site appraisal, a number of options were put forward to then PCC for discussion. The proposals include reopening the original Norman west door to reinstate the axial possession route through the building and to provide level access for wheel chair users.
Project Information
Client: PCC of St. James
Listed: Grade I
Budget: £900,000
Construction Date: 12th Century with later alterations
Scope: Reordering, repairs to monuments
Funding: NLF & others
Church reordering Herefordshire
The principal aim of the church reordering project is to allow the church provide better services for its congregation. At present, the church is used for a short period of time during the week, tnew services will include a new kitchen, together with new WC facilities and introduction of flexible space to the west end.
The church reordering works are set to be coordinated with a series of repair works which include re-roofing the chancel, repairs to the highly decorated Bodley paintings and installation of a new French drain to the perimeter of the building to reduced the levels of damp from within the building.
The Church reordering has been carefully considered to minimise the impact on the fine interior and the setting of the Grade I building. New lighting and heating will enhance the space, allowing it to be used throughout the week instead of only a few hours for services.
As this project develops we will provide regular updates, stay tuned!
