Church House officially opens for community use

A newly renovated house in Canon Square, purchased by St Michael’s Church, has recently opened and is ready for community use. 

Church House, at number 11 Canon Square, has undergone an extensive renovation and now includes two flats, community rooms and a pastoral office.

It was purchased by St Michael’s Church as part of the Building to Serve project, which aims to invest in the church’s facilities to meet growing demand in the community.

Following months of renovations, supported by local tradespeople and volunteers, the building was formally opened on Friday 18th July. Around 100 members of the community, including local MP Brian Mathew and Mayor cllr Saffi Rabey, gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“We see the opening as now being at the start line of the project. We really want people in the community to make use of the space,” said a member of the church team, Hannah Thomson.

Several groups have already expressed interest in using the community rooms, including a local counselling service, a baby and newborn music group and Alcoholics Anonymous. Discussions are also underway about running a debt counselling service from the building.

“The main aim of the project was to bring the building back to life and give it back to the town,” added Hannah. “It now feels like it’s the house it used to be.”

During the open evening, each room was arranged to tell a different story. “In one room, we had a photo timeline showing how the building used to look and how it looks now. Another room featured video testimonials from local groups. One displayed newspaper clippings about the project, and another invited people to share their hopes and prayers for Melksham,” said Hannah.

£492,000 raised

To complete the renovations, the church team raised £492,000, with support from the local community. Fundraising events included a plant and craft fair, a barbecue and a Christmas auction evening hosted by TV antiques star Paul Martin.

“Families also took part in sponsored walks, and Charlie the rector and others cycled from Melksham to Salisbury Cathedral and back,” said Hannah.

“So many people in the community have helped to support this. If people haven’t donated funds, they have donated their time or shared advice. Dulux donated all the paint. We are so thankful to everyone. The building now feels loved again.”

The second phase of the Building to Serve project will focus on renovations to the church itself, including installing a kitchen and toilets and removing the pews to make it more accessible for community events such as concerts and toddler groups.

This next phase is expected to cost £350,000, but there is currently a shortfall of £250,000.

For information about the community rooms in Church House and how to book email: hello@melksham.church