A much needed upgrade to the toilet facilities at St Peter's Church in Bexleyheath is bringing much relief to regular users of the church hall.
The work was carried out following the church securing a £50,000 grant from Biffa Award - a multi-million pound fund that helps to build communities and transform lives through awarding grants to community and environmental projects across the UK, as part of the Landfill Communities Fund.
St Peter's Church in Pickford Lane, Bexleyheath was first consecrated in December 1957. Prior to that a dual purpose mission hall had been built in 1930. This hall has served the local community for over 80 years but its facilities were outdated and inadequate to provide for modern day needs.
Phyl Gunn, PCC Secretary said:
"The Parochial Church Council had been aware that the toilet facilities were urgently in need of upgrading but this has proved to be a very costly project - especially with the need for a disabled friendly provision. After carefully studying the criteria set out for an application to be made, the PCC made the decision to apply for a grant from Biffa Award.
"It is now fully operational and is ‘enjoyed’ by all!"
For Anna, the play group leader, they are 'massive improvement':
“I would just like to say on behalf of myself and everyone at Jack and Jill’s preschool thank you for our new toilets. Parents, children and staff have complimented them. They are more child friendly and a very anxious child that has never used our toilets before is finally using the toilet at preschool.
We now feel confident showing new parents and visitors the toilets and having a disabled toilet is fantastic and allows us to be far more inclusive...It's a massive improvement.”
Gillian French, Head of Grants, Biffa Award said:
“It’s great to support this project. By putting money in the right place we can provide the facilities that keep vital community hubs such as this one going.”