Beeston’s tallest structure – the 110ft high spire at Beeston Methodist Church on Chilwell Road – is being cleaned and repointed as part of a proposed programme of essential work to maintain and modernise the 121-year-old building.
Broxtowe Borough Council has granted planning permission for the redevelopment of the distinctive Victorian church, designed by Bradford architect William James Morley and opened in 1902.
The landmark spire became more visible after the demolition of several large mill buildings in the 1990s.
Andy Taylor, co-chair of the BMC Property Committee and a member of the Redevelopment Group, said: “Checks on the condition of the spire revealed that some re-pointing of the stonework had become necessary as well as surface cleaning to remove lichens, moss and some larger weeds. The work is being undertaken by ASC Steeplejacks, of Carlton.”
The redevelopment project will focus on improvements to the church sanctuary and the main entrance at the side of the building. The church is currently expensive to heat. So, a new heating system will be installed and the church roof, which has come to the end of its natural life, will be re-slated and insulated. The church windows will be doubled-glazed and new low-energy lighting installed.
The worship area will be re-modelled to meet the needs of a 21st century Methodist church while enhancing its role as an important community asset. The side balconies will be removed, allowing the impressive stained-glass windows in these areas to be fully revealed and bring extra light into the church.
A new level floor with insulation underneath will be installed to create a more flexible space, suitable for small and large group worship and a wide range of community events. The remaining ground floor pews will be removed and replaced with modern seating. The impressive pipe organ will undergo a complete overhaul as part of the redevelopment.
New audio-visual technology will facilitate live streaming of services and events, including concerts and other performances. The coffee bar area will be upgraded and automatic doors installed at the side entrance.
BMC, committed to making the building as accessible and eco-friendly as possible, is also considering fitting solar panels on some of the roofing towards the rear of the premises.