Refurbishment transforms inaccessible building into 'welcoming place' 

The Grove Centre Church in Sydenham, South London officially opened its newly refurbished Grove Centre House on Friday 6 June

The church, which is a combined Baptist and United Reformed Church, has always endeavoured to be a 'A Place For People'.

However, while having a full programme of both church and community activities, the church recognised the limitations in its adjoining Georgian style, listed House Hall and offices.

'The building was inaccessible, tired and failing to meet the direct needs of our many user groups,' noted a press release.

The project, which has been 16 years in the planning and delivery, has transformed the facility into a bright, airy and fully accessible space with a lift providing access to offices and meeting spaces on the first floor.

It cost in excess of £750,000, with money being raised through a number of charitable grants, including input from both denominations, local fund-raising efforts and gifts and legacies from within its own fellowship.

The Right Honourable Ellie Reeves MP performed the ceremony, along with representatives of the London Borough of Lewisham, the professional team and builders, current users of the spaces and members of the church. 

The MP for Lewisham West and East Dulwich welcomed the 'huge improvements' to the building since the last time she visited. She commented on how the refurbishment has turned the building 'into a welcoming place for use by local groups and organisations who do so much to help make strong communities and help foster a positive community spirit which she is proud we have in Sydenham.'

'It's wonderful to be at the grand re-opening of the Grove Centre House Hall,' she added. 

'The Grove Centre has been at the heart of Sydenham for more than 50 years and I know it’ll continue to serve our community for many years to come.'

The church’s ambition is to ensure that its facilities serve its local community by enabling a wide range of activities.