Landmark St Andrew’s Church improvements completed
The improvements have restored key parts of the Grade II* listed building and made it a brighter and more welcoming town centre landmark.
A service of Choral Evensong and reception attended by the Deputy Mayor Cllr Neil Sandison on behalf of the borough was held at the church on Sunday evening (27 September) to mark the completion of the project.
The work included:
- cleaning stonework facing Church Street and Church Walk
- repairing damaged stonework, including the cross above the north porch
- replacing plastic window guards with black steel guards, making the stained-glass windows visible again
- repairing and repainting cast-iron rainwater pipes
- cleaning and repairing stone pillars and railings
- installing new lighting to show the church’s architecture after dark.
- Cllr Louise Robinson, Leader of Rugby Borough Council, said: “St Andrew’s is one of Rugby’s best-known buildings and stands at the heart of our town centre.
“These improvements have restored important features of the church and made the surrounding area brighter and more welcoming.
"The church brings visitors into the town, and the gardens offer a beautiful place to sit – the improvements encourage people to linger longer and help transform the visual appeal of the town centre. Improving the public spaces in the town contributes towards town centre regeneration.”
St Andrew’s is Rugby’s civic church as well as a place of worship. It hosts concerts, exhibitions and free lunchtime recitals, drop-in sessions and community groups. The church also works with local organisations supporting projects including Rugby Foodbank and Hope4.
The Revd Canon Edmund Newey, Rector of Rugby, said: “We are delighted to see this work completed and are grateful to Rugby Borough Council, the Friends of St Andrew’s Church and everyone who has helped to deliver it.
“The work has transformed the way people see the church from Church Street and Church Walk. It also helps us offer a warm welcome to everyone who comes through our doors.
“St Andrew’s has served Rugby for centuries. We want to build on that history by opening the church to more community and cultural events and playing an active part in the future of the town centre.”
Cllr Neil Sandison, Deputy Mayor of Rugby, said: “St Andrew’s has been at the heart of Rugby’s civic life for generations. It brings people together at times of celebration, remembrance and reflection.
“These improvements respect the church’s history and towns heritage help it remain a welcoming place for the whole community. It is wonderful to see this much-loved landmark restored and ready to play its part in Rugby’s future.”
The project forms the first phase of a wider programme of improvements proposed by the church. Information about the Rugby Borough Council regeneration programme can be found at www.rugby.gov.uk/town-centre-regeneration1.