Accessible toilets
We have two exterior toilets by the old church hall that require a map and navigation system to locate! They are too far away and difficult to access for those with limited mobility and too few in number for when we have large events. Therefore, we need additional and more accessible facilities. Deciding on the location, whether within the church or in a new exterior building is a key challenge for us moving forward.
Interpretation
There are hand-held interpretation boards, leaflets in many languages and some displays in the church (including a touchscreen). However, visitors often ask key questions like “How old is the building?” We should therefore aim for an interpretation scheme that will convey fundamental points about the church, such as: sacred space, how and when the church was constructed, symbolism, the rood screen, music and dedication - with the opportunity to dig down for more detail if desired.
Engagement
We also want to signpost visitors to the other historic sites in town. If possible, the interpretation scheme should have an interactive element. Visitors will follow a new entrance path into the church, via a refurbished south door, turning west into the current shop area. The Friends of St Mary shop area will need to be refurbished, preferably with freestanding double-sided display units (which can be moved If necessary) away from the walls. Information displays/leaflets in the church to be well displayed and decluttered.
The general improvements listed above are required to make the space more accessible and comfortable for visitors and groups. However, there is also a need to attract new and more diverse groups through dedicated outreach and heritage engagement activities which would require a helping hand from some experienced volunteers who specialise in this area.
Again, is this you? Can you offer a few hours a week to help boost this vital part of our growth? Contact here.