Following the success of Campaign 2023 and having secured substantial grant funding from a number of charitable trusts and other organsations, both locally and nationally, we are now able to commence the phase 2 of the project to restore the St Mary’s iconic tower. The work includes repointing, pointing, repairing and replacing the eroded stonework. It will make the tower secure and protect the original masonry as much as possible for the future.

In order to commence the repairs, the current scaffolding needs to be extended to the very top of the tower. Work started in January. To ensure public safety whilst this work takes place, the roads surrounding the church will need to be closed for approximately 8 weeks (until end of February). 

The roads which will be affected are Northgate Street, Church Street and Old Square. Parking will also be suspended on these roads. A one way system will be in operation for diverting vehicles around these streets. We are doing what we can to work with these issues and expect to be in a position to ask the Council to re-open the roads in early March once the scaffolding is in place. 

We do apologise for the length of time that these roads will be closed and for the disruption that this will cause. We understand the difficulties that this can cause surrounding communities and would like to thank you for your continued patience. The restoration work itself will take place from March to November. In order not to disrupt Christmas trading or activities, the start of the removal of the scaffolding will be delayed until 2024 as the roads will need to be closed again. 

We will continue to post the latest information on our Campaign 2023 website as well as our social media pages.