Project Rationale (1)

Several factors coincide to make this a particularly opportune time for the creation of a shared space in St Stephen’s church.

Use of church buildings in the 21st century

The Church of England is currently seeking ways to support additional, alternative or shared use of its church buildings and is keen to embrace a project of this kind which provides the opportunity for the building to be more open and accessible to the wider community while remaining a consecrated church where mission and worship continue to be practised.

City centre regeneration is under way

A full-scale programme of regeneration and rebuilding in the city centre is taking place. This rebuilding, which lies alongside St Stephen’s church, is focussed primarily on commercial and shopping activities and would be complemented by the presence of a nearby space specifically designed to contribute to a traditional sense of community support in this historic city. Such an opportunity is unlikely to occur again in the foreseeable future.

Prime location of St Stephen’s

The geographical location of St Stephen’s church in the midst of a busy shopping and business area of the city provides a unique opportunity for the creation and maintenance of a centre in support of community life in the city. This high profile site, with its attendant opportunity for advertising and publicity, provides unique opportunities for promoting public awareness of events which complement the commercial activity which surrounds it.

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