St Mark’s Building Improvements – Community Update

We’re excited to share some updates about the ongoing work at St Mark’s Church and Hall! Our aim is to make our facilities even more welcoming, accessible, and useful for everyone in the community.

What’s Been Happening So Far?

Our wonderful tree surgeon has removed trees and shrubs in two locations, with all the green waste going to biomass – a great eco-friendly touch! This has opened up the borders for future planting with attractive, low-maintenance shrubs that will be easy to care for and keep looking lovely.

Our tree surgeon working hard for a greener space.

Coming Changes in the Upcoming Weeks

This week and beyond, you’ll notice a few more changes: the old concrete posts and chain fence are coming out, and the dog poo bin is being temporarily moved while we await advice on its new home. We’re also updating our signage – the old black St Mark’s sign is being retired, and a brand new St Mark’s Church & Hall sign will be installed. The advertising board is being repositioned, and we’re tidying up by removing leftover concrete feet from the old notice board.

Out with the old, in with the new signage for St Mark’s.

Practical Improvements for Everyone

We’re also making practical improvements: a secure, lockable wheelie bin store is being installed, and we’re removing roots from the shrubbery to prepare for new planting. Most importantly, we’re installing an access ramp to the Main Hall emergency exit, with extra paving and leveling to ensure everyone – especially those with limited mobility – can get in and out safely. All the areas where we’ve been digging will be reseeded to keep things green and tidy.

Preparing the ground for new plants and improvements.

Additional Enhancements

There’s more! We’re putting up a new address sign for St Mark’s & St Luke’s by the entrance porch, and the outside emergency light that wasn’t working will be replaced this week.

And, in a very visible upgrade, new front doors for St Mark’s are arriving on Friday, 19th September. These will really smarten up the entrance, and key holders (both for the church and hall) can collect their new keys at Revive on the day or at another convenient time.

A Welcoming Space for All

All these improvements are about making St Mark’s a safer, more attractive, and more accessible place for everyone. Whether you’re coming to worship, joining a community group, or just passing by, we hope you’ll notice the difference and feel even more at home.

Thank you for your patience while the work is underway – and do let us know what you think when you next visit!

Let’s embrace the positive changes, making our community center a hub of positivity and connection. Join us in this transformation, and together, we’ll make St Mark's Church & Hall a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.