Eastbourne: expecting and attempting great things for God

Eastbourne: expecting and attempting great things for God

The economic and social consequences of the global pandemic have been profound, creating a new set of challenges.

So says Philip Winch, principal architect for long-established CPL Architects, exhibitors at CRE National 2021.

‘As churches consider the stewardship of their land and building, new challenges and opportunities are arising within the emerging socio-economic landscape, which will require a strategic and often transformative approach,’ Philip told CRE News.

He pointed to Emmanuel, a Methodist-URC Local Ecumenical Partnership Church in Eastbourne, which called on CPL to design a church to achieve their mission objectives and dispose of three sites in the process.

‘Their approach of “expecting great things… and attempting great things for God” can be seen in this transformative project, currently under construction,’ said Philip. ‘The project provides a modern and flexible building, which will be suitable for both worship and community use and will enable the church to fulfil its mission well into the 21^st century.

‘The contemporary, energy-efficient design includes a modern double-height worship space with passive ventilation, flexible hall, commercial kitchen and offices at first floor level, with a welcoming entrance foyer, community café and parking at ground floor level and nursery facilities, meetings rooms and roof gardens at second floor level.’

The new building will be partly funded by the sale of three other sites, which are being redeveloped sympathetically to provide much needed housing in the town for local people. The congregation is raising the balance through a series of imaginative fund-raising initiatives and from generous donors.

‘If, like them, you are “expecting and attempting great things”, and would like to review how your church buildings and property can better deliver your vision and mission objectives, contact us at CRE National 2021,’ said Philip.

• CPL Architects are on stand U15 at CRE National 2021

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