New life for historic town church

Work is due to start next Tuesday to transform the interior of St John the Evangelist Church in Cleckheaton.

A the changes mean the area for worship will be reduced to a smaller area at the front of the church and a partition wall stretching from floor to ceiling will be installed behind it.

A two-floor community area will then be built in the partitioned area. The ground floor will have a main hall, a meeting room, a kitchen, a lobby, toilets and a baby changing area.

A lift as well as stairs will take users to the second floor, which will be fitted out when funds become available.

Once complete, the church anticipates users will include youth groups, parent and toddler groups, holiday clubs for primary school children, and advice and support services.

Project manager Roger Pickles said: “This work will provide much-needed facilities for local groups, for people of all ages and backgrounds, and will breathe new life into the church. We cannot wait to see work start and this community space take shape.”