Following the publication of the Winter 2026 newsletter, we have an update on the major restoration work taking place at St. Peter’s Church.
Objectives
The primary objective of this extensive project has been to repair the church tower, which was at risk of collapse and posed a danger to the nave roof. The project, supported by a significant grant of over £243,000 from the National Heritage Lottery Fund (NHLF), aimed to stabilize the structure and ensure the church could be safely reopened to the public.
Progress Over the Last Two Years
- 2024: The project began with successful fundraising efforts, including the 2024 Festival, to raise the necessary match funding to unlock the NHLF grant.
- Winter 2025: The contract for the 32-week renovation was signed, and the church was closed for daily access.
- Spring 2025: Builders J.H. Hogg commenced work. Despite initial delays due to hibernating bats, scaffolding was erected, and work began on repointing, brick replacement, and structural repairs.
- Late 2025: The church remained closed through the summer and autumn as extensive repairs continued, with services temporarily relocated to the Village Hall.
Latest News (Winter 2026)
The most recent update brings good news as the project nears completion. External scaffolding is currently being removed to allow for the installation of new wildlife-friendly louvres, which include swift nesting boxes and bat access points.
Internal scaffolding is also being dismantled. A significant number of repairs have been completed, including:
- Adjustment and realignment of tie rods.
- Installation of a staircase tie plate.
- Securing of wall-top brickwork.
- extensive repair of the internal north silence chamber crack.
The church is now anticipated to reopen in Spring 2026, just in time for the Blaxhall Festival.
Please do follow this link to see Blaxhall’s latest newsletter, which contains some recent pictures of the church tower.