WE ARE OPTIMISTIC

At last the New Church Committee are able to report some better news about the plans for building the new church, parish centre and presbytery on the London Road site .

 

After our disappointment last December about the financial backing of the diocese for our project, we are pleased to report that ongoing discussions have been taking place with the diocese on new funding proposals. The details of a revised loan are awaiting final approval by the Diocesan Trustees. Together with the funds already held by the parish this should enable us to go ahead .

 

Our last report stated that meetings with the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity and their professional advisors would continue. We are very hopeful that an understanding has now been reached and that the negotiations over the land on the London Road site will soon be settled.  As previously stated this has been complicated by the involvement of the Department for Education and Skills. We have been waiting for their judgment on the amount of money they will demand when there is a change of use on the site. They have finally

 

responded and we are now able to plan ahead secure in the knowledge that the parish and diocese are not exposed to an unknown financial penalty.

 

Over the last few months, the New Church Committee has held a series of meetings with all the relevant parties involved, including regular meetings with the Sisters and their representatives. A representative from the Committee will be attending a forthcoming meeting with the local planning department.

 

In order that we are ready to commence building at the earliest opportunity discussions are continuing on the needs of the parish and the design of the new buildings. We now need to revisit our original plans and prioritise the features considered essential for worship and mission in Waterlooville, and explore the ways that we can obtain the best value for money.