A historic church in Bury St Edmunds is undergoing a facelift in
the final phase of an ambitious £500,000 restoration and redecoration
project.The Catholic Church of St Edmund King and Martyr, in Westgate Street, is temporarily closed until Easter while the £240,000 work is completed to restore some plaster as well as install new lighting, a PA system and altar.
The overhaul is the remaining part of a five year regeneration of the building with works already unveiled on the crypt and chapel - costing £125,000 and £80,000 respectively.
It is the first time the church has been closed during its 175 year history and nearly 40 years since it was last repainted.
Parish priest Father Philip Shryane said when the church was redecorated last Century it was possible to continue to hold services but this time ‘the scaffolding, disruption and need for safety’ meant it was necessary to close the church.
There have been changes to the times and locations of services with information available from www.stedmundkm.org.uk or by calling 01284 754358.
Mass on Sunday will be at St Benedict’s Catholic School, in Beeton’s Way, from 8.30am and 10.30am or St Edmund’s School, in Westgate Street, at 6pm.
The reopening of the church is scheduled for Easter.
A booklet ‘The Present From Our Past’ setting out the history of the church is available at £4.50 per copy.