During the early 1990’s the PCC discussed, with its architect Mr Doxat-Pratt, ways of increasing the seating capacity of the church to meet the need of an ever-increasing congregation.
Various schemes were investigated, including putting in a balcony and several different plans for the construction of an extension. Eventually the final version of the plans for an extension at the West end were submitted to the Local Authority for planning permission in spring 1995. These plans were considered by Vale Royal Council’s Planning Committee at their meeting on 30 May 1995, and were rejected by one vote. A few councillors appealed to the full Vale Royal Council whilst the church prayed hard for their appeal to succeed, and at the July meeting, the full Council approved the plans. The plans were then submitted to the Diocesan Advisory Committee which also approved the plans. Formal permission to proceed was requested when the PCC resolved on 20th May 1996 to apply for a faculty to build the extension. The Chancellor decided that a Consistory Court was necessary before he could issue the faculty. This Court was held on the 6th December 1996, and the faculty was issued a few days later.
In the Spring of 1997, preliminary works commenced including the relocation of the war memorial to a new site a few yards nearer to the village. The main contractor, Hankinson’s of Cheshire, commenced work on 29th September 1997 and the extension was completed in time for the official opening by the Bishop of Chester on the 14th June 1998. Including preliminary works, furnishings, and professional fees the total cost was about £386,000.
This extension, as well as providing extra seating, also provides much needed toilet facilities and a kitchen to modern catering standards. Cafes were run in the extension until they moved to the new Church Centre in 2010.
Before the extension
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The church with the extension |