Major building project to be launched at Kenilworth church

A major building project is being launched at a church in Kenilworth next month.

St Nicholas Church is a Grade I Listed building dating back to sometime between 1210 and 1285.

On September 1 a £200,000 building project is being launched to modernise areas inside the church - this includes the heating system and areas with pews.

The project architect is Mark King of Kenilworth, the heating consultants are the Engineering Practice of Leamington Spa and the main contractor for the project is Arden Construction Ltd of Alcester.

The current heating system in the church is old - comprising of an old boiler and six old fan convector heaters.

They are linked by old pipework, some of which Victorian cast iron square section pipes. The latter will remain “on show only” for their unique appearance.

The heating will be replaced with a modern heating system, including 17 new convector heaters and most of the new heaters will be positioned on the north and south side walls to the nave.

To allow better circulation of heat, the side pews will be permanently removed.

The low-level side aisles will be raised to the same level as adjacent floor levels, creating open spaces on the same level along both sides of the church. These will be carpeted.

To replace the pews, the church will purchase new free-standing chairs in oak veneer, 20 with arms and 60 without arms.

Because they are not fixed, this gives flexibility to create space for informal worship activities, hospitality and social / community activities.

All centre pews and the two back side rows will remain as before. Traditional worship will continue and the overall appearance on entering church will be as before.

Wheel chair users and those who find pews uncomfortable may choose to sit in the new side areas.

St Nicholas was the first church in Kenilworth to re-open its doors for Sunday Worship after the lockdown and for private prayers and visits during the week.

For some time it remained the only church to be open, but it will close for the duration of the works starting September 1 until the middle of November.

Reverend Stella Bailey, vicar, said: “We are custodians of a building which is part of the historic fabric of our town. It is also part of the family life of people in this town, who come to this amazing building at important times such as weddings, baptisms and funerals.

"This project will help to make our church fit for purpose in a modern age, but still retain its character.

"We will be able to offer better hospitality and warmth for the church family and the whole community.”

Keith Grierson, project manager said “The cost of this work is £200,000. The church has £160,000 of legacy money put aside for this and are hoping to raise the balance from donations.

"Please donate by either making a donation to the Parochial Church Council of St Nicholas Kenilworth or sponsoring a chair - £150 per chair or £185 for arm chairs."

For more details contact Rosie Dalby, parish administrator, on 01926 857 509 or by emailing: [email protected]