The first phase of major external renovations to St Mary’s Church in Nantwich are nearing an end.
We can reveal the estimated completion date of phase one is now August 8, a little over a month away.
Around that date, all the scaffolding and sheeting will come down to reveal the renovated stonework and windows.
But fundraising is still going on to be able to carry out phase 2 work to the north and east of the grade 1 listed “Cathedral of South Cheshire”.
And church bosses are appealing for more help after their bid to secure lottery and grant funding were knocked back.
Paul Ramsey, chairman of Nantwich Parish Church Preservation Appeal Trust, told Nantwich News: “Referring to phase one, I can say we are about 80% complete.
“Much stone has been replaced. Regarding two windows, these are about to be reinstated after attention by specialists.
“However, we are close to using the funds set aside for this work. And we do need to keep a contingency in hand.”
The church, which dates back to the 14th century, launched its “Phase Two Appeal” in July last year which has received donations from individuals and organisations at a steady rate of just under £1,000 a week.
Mr Ramsey said: “We are also able to claim Gift Aid of £5,586.25. This is a magnificent response by individuals and by the community.
“Examples of particular gifts include an individual asking for donations in lieu of presents at a significant birthday; and donations at funerals.
“We are very grateful for all who have contributed in any way.”
However, the phase two amount which currently stands at around £44,000 is just one eighth of what is required to carry out phase two.
He added: “Regrettably, we have had less success with applications to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the National Churches Trust – in fact no grants from them at all.
“However, The Benefact Trust, The Garfield Weston Trust and Nantwich Town Council have all contributed and these grants are much appreciated.
“At present we have funds earmarked for Phase Two for only about an eighth of the amount required to complete phase two as originally envisaged.
“The new restriction on claiming back VAT could be a factor.
“When phase one is completed, which is likely to be August 2025, we shall then have a clearer picture of where we can proceed.
“We hope that we shall be able to do some work on the east window.
“But the PCC and the Preservation Trust will only be able to confirm this after the invoices following phase one’s August 2025 completion are received.”
(Pic below by Jonathan White)
The church, Smith’s building, charity shop, flagpole, building society….all with scaffolding/covers up for months with snail’s pace progress.
The town centre looks like a building site, and Nantwich deserves better.