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AUGUST 2024
Work continues on the Ramp. I have a meeting with the Historical Churches Commission on 19th September to propose the work required to build the Ramp. Work will be carried out by Cadman Builders.
As you can see from the drawing to the right, the detail has altered slightly, this is because of building regulations. The total cost is around £20,000.
We have most of the money required, but we're still £5000 short. This will be raised by fundraising and various events being held to raise the funds.
It is hoped that the ramp will get the go ahead in September or October, and will be built in time for Christmas
Fig 2. Drawing of Proposed Ramp.
The formal application to the H.C.C. and Sandwell Council is now going ahead. Forms for the application are now displayed on the notice board and church door.
The Historical Churches Commission has asked for Parishioners to write to them explaining why they are in favour of wheelchair access to the Church. They've also asked that people also mention why they like the design proposed.
If you would like to write to the H.C.C. please address it to Deacon Paul O'connor. Fr Michael will email all letters on the 6th September, in time for a meeting being held on the 19th September.
Fig 1. Drawing of the proposed Wheelchair access to St Mary's Church.
If you know a company, bricklayers, or you are a bricklayer, and would like to quote for the work, please get in touch.
After an Extraordinary meeting of the Finance Council, it was agreed that the diocese be contacted and the necessary work begun on details for the ramp. It was agreed that more quotes were necessary, as many as we can get, and then 3 quotes be submitted to the diocese with a recommendation to one giving details. Once the necessary work is completed, the Council is to consider the the steps towards financing the project.
This is similar to how the 'RAMP' will look outside the church. The Railings will be black, sitting on an elevated wall, but they will not be as dominant as they are on this photo. Note the steps with handrails.
Work on the Wheelchair Access - 'The Ramp' continues in Ernest. So far it has been ongoing for 12 years, but it is Fr Michael's intention to get this done as soon as possible. Access for people to the church who are unsteady on their feet, or those in a wheelchair is unsafe and is a Health and Safety concern for all. It is therefore our wish this be done as soon as possible.
We have to date been given a quote of £23,000 for the work to be carried out, which is the exact quote we were given 12 years ago. Parishioners have been wonderful in raising funds for the project. We are to contact other firms for quotes until we get a quote that is satisfactory to us.
We are required to get at least 3 quotes, but we can get as many as we want until we find the right quote. We have a price in mind for the work to be carried out, agreed by members of the Finance Council.
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