Dear Parishioners

Almost two years ago I spoke at all the Masses over three weekends regarding a proposal to redevelop the church and grounds. These plans are now being finalised to be submitted for planning. 

I more than anyone encourage all members of our Parish community to engage with the democratic planning process. In doing this you will ensure that your voice is heard and your legitimate observations and objections are properly considered. 

What’s being proposed ? The proposal includes a full renovation of the church including replacing the current asbestos roof with a new modern, leak-free roof. In addition to this it is proposed to partition the interior of the church to create a smaller capacity church and a new parish hall with a capacity of 180 – ideal for larger groups, community gatherings, plays and so much more. It is proposed to enhance and improve our Parish Office and shop. In addition to this it is proposed to create a new coffee dock and kitchen area. The new roof will hold solar panels, and the building will be full insulated with new light, heat, and sound systems. 

To pay for this work, it is proposed that the land around the church building is developed. This proposal sees the building of two blocks of apartments for over 55’s: 90 one-bedroom units in total. These meet DCC housing requirements for the area and are designed to the highest standard with communal spaces and terraces. The proposals have been carefully considered under the City Council’s pre-planning process.  It is proposed that the areas around the apartments and church will be landscaped. The grotto will be maintained and a new prayer garden created for use for times of prayer as well as for photos after baptisms, communions, confirmations, and weddings. This has all been designed to the highest of standards. 

I fully understand the concerns that I have heard so far. I want your voice to be heard and for that to happen in a meaningful way and for your concerns, observations, and objections to be dealt with properly. I strongly encourage full and active engagement with the planning process when that time comes. No plans have been submitted yet. 

Let me reassure you that together we are investing in the future of our church and the future of our community through the provision of much-needed community facilities.

How to engage with the project:

The Architects are preparing a series of information boards to be displayed in the Church. We plan to have these in situ before Christmas. To accompany these, a new ‘Project Feedback’ portal will be created on our Parish website to all people express their support, concerns, observations and questions. We will also have Feedback forms and a comment box in the church for those who prefer to hand write.

What do we ask of you?

1. Please only take your information from the official parish sources: this website, our Facebook page and newsletter. All official updates will be posted through these channels only. We cannot guarantee the aurracy of information from other sources.

2. Please visit the information stands and display when it is in place in the church. I will notify the Parish when the display is in place.

3. Please use the Feedback process either online or through the Feedback forms. As a synodal Church and Parish, we want to hear your voice.

4. Please engage with the planning process when the time comes. This is the very best way to ensure that any objections and observations you have are properly recorded and considered by the Planning Authority.

5. Please encourage other parishioners to participate.

As we head into the Holy Season of Advent, may the Lord bless you and yours as we await the arrival of Christ this Christmas.

Fr Martin Bennett OFM Cap.

Parish Priest