The existing building has only basic utilities such as electricity and water but no toilet facilities and the current fixed pew configuration limits accessibility for wheelchairs users and also the types of community events that can be held. There has been a long-time aspiration for a community meeting place in the village. In 1930 the village received a bequest from Joseph Brown to "to provide a reading or recreation room for the said Parish of Bednall in memory of the Brown family". This legacy is still held by the Parish but at £9,000, its purchasing power has diminished over time. The PCC want to honour the intention of this bequest by providing a separate warm space within the building with internet access and integral toilet and tea facilities. Users and potential users of the building were canvassed as to their requirements in 2021 and their responses have been reflected in the final plans.
In July 2024, we were awarded a grant of £236,995 by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to create a community hub within the existing building. We have also received grants from the Benefact Trust, Staffordshire Historic Churches Trust, South Staffordshire Council and Lasletts Charities plus generous donations from our local community.
To date we have moved the Victorian organ and the baptismal font to their new locations with the Nave. In July 2025, we appointed Messenger Construction Ltd as contractors to deliver the remaining construction stages as follows:-
Stage 1: installation of the toilet, tea bar and storage units in the south aisle plus connection to sewage drains plus the removal of a number of pews in the Nave to create a more flexible space and upgrades to flooring
Stage 2: installation of the glazed screening to the nave south aisle arcade to provide a separate warm space for smaller events
Stage 3: alterations to the porch area to provide a new glazed door from the porch to the main building to enhance energy efficiency, upgrades to the lighting and heating, redecoration
Once the physical changes are complete we intend to develop a programme of social activities for the community to widen access and use of our beautiful church.
Our just giving page is : https://www.justgiving.com/page/all-saints-bednall-reordering
