Work starts on the replacement for city centre church
WORK to convert a former office block into a new home for the Central United Reformed Church, which is due to be demolished to make way for Derby’s Becketwell development, is under way.
Derby-based design, refurbishment and fit-out specialist DSP (Interiors) Ltd has been appointed principal designer and contractor on the project to create a new home for the church at Stuart House in Green Lane.
The team at DSP has been working closely with members of Central United Reformed Church to design a modern new internal layout, which will be better suited to the church’s community-focused activities and provide improved accessibility for the disabled.
Plans for the ground floor include an entrance lobby and reception office along with a sanctuary, which will feature a concrete ceiling to enhance acoustics and showcase contemporary exposed services.
The sanctuary will also feature a bespoke ‘ichthys’ Fish lighting feature, backlit windows and an oak timber-slatted wall.
The first floor will include a multifunctional hall with children’s soft play area and meeting rooms.
Work is currently taking place to strip out the ground and first floor ceilings, partitions, carpets, toilets, electrical and mechanical services and to remove previous flood damage.
As well as providing a place to worship, the church is home to parents’ and children’s groups including Girl Guides and Boys Brigade and sessions for fitness and the bereaved. It is also the night-time base for Derby Street Pastors and the Central Musical Theatre Society.
Andy Priestley, director of DSP Interiors said: “It’s a pleasure to be working with Central United Reformed Church on this unique project. We have succeeded in designing a space which will serve as a place of worship and will also provide multiple uses for the community.”
John Brebner, the church’s regeneration project leader said the company had done a “fantastic job” incorporating the needs of the diverse groups which use the church.
The church is set to open to the public in May.