A VILLAGE church is considering a modern extension to cope with increasing numbers. Proposals for a new single story addition to the north side of Felsted Church will undergo public scrutiny at a public meeting on Wednesday at 8pm, but Rev Colin Taylor be

A VILLAGE church is considering a modern extension to cope with increasing numbers.

Proposals for a new single story addition to the north side of Felsted Church will undergo public scrutiny at a public meeting on Wednesday at 8pm, but Rev Colin Taylor believes it will go down well with the local congregation.

He said: "This is an exciting project to modernise and provide facilities for the 21st century and a continually growing population.

"The church serves the people of Felsted, Little Dunmow and Flitch Green, the latter of which is still growing week by week. We need to keep up with that growth."

Although no plans have been formally finalised, the modern block will comprise of a new kitchen, a toilet block, and importantly meeting rooms for working with young people.

Rev Taylor added: "Two years ago we didn't have any facilities for young teenagers but we now have a growing teenager group. At the moment we have over 30 youngsters and we have to divide them into separate groups, it would be great if we could have more space."

Renowned Cambridge architect, Henry Freeland, has been brought in to produce drawings for the design and a quantity surveyor will be appointed to find of the cost of the project.

Mr Freeland has been involved in many similar projects on old buildings and churches and is known for his sympathetic approach.

He said that he is happy with the designs for the grade I listed church, but stressed that they are only at the preliminary stages.

Discussions are continuing with the approving authorities at Uttlesford District Council and English Heritage, as well as leaders of the church community.

The proposals also include the reorganisation of the interior of the existing church so that comfier seats can be installed, and a screen will be moved back with a view to having church concerts in the near future.

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