
We would like to improve access to enable the local community and visitors to fully enjoy use of our very special church, historic buildings and tearooms.
This campaign has now ended.
Our unique Baroque church in Great Witley, along with Witley Court and the Garden Tea Rooms are fantastic community assets. Unfortunately they are not fully utilised as access along the drive leading to them has become almost impassable in places. It is vital that proper access is maintained so that they can flourish. Two of the worst sections have now have a tarmac surface but temporary repairs close to the church are not holding during wet weather. A tarmac surface is needed for the community to access these wonderful facilities and to allow community events to take place. It is frequently used by wheelchairs and mobility scooters as well as walkers, cyclists, horses and motorised vehicles. Great Witley Church has gained more importance by being designated a Major Church, making it one of the top 300 churches in the country. The church is in the process of trying to raise funds for the road improvements but anything they raise will need to be match funded.
What we'll deliver:
Why it's a great idea:
All the local community and tourists will be able to safely access these unique features which are a major part of Great Witley's heritage. The church will be able to expand its plans for concerts and recitals. It will be able to hold community events covering dementia, bereavement, mental health and general wellbeing, among others. There will be greater scope to develop educational programmes for the many schools who like to visit the church and court. There are so many things that could be done at the church, tearooms and court if there was better access. The car park near the church would provide easier access for people with mobility issues who wish to visit all the facilities on the site. The Tea Room gardens provide and oasis of tranquility. A recent visitor to the church described it as "in a world gone mad, a place of calm".
Steps to get it done:
The community has struggled for years to keep the access to Great Witley Church safe but time has taken its toll and despite much filling of potholes the weather always wins. A major programme of temporary repairs in January 2024 was soon washed away by constant rain. Having resolved to make more permanent repairs to the two worst sections a quote was obtained for the first one. Before we could start fundraising for it a local anonymous benefactor stepped in and paid the whole amount of £52,371.60 inc VAT. This left us just needing to raise funds for the next section which will amount to £77,000 inc VAT. Some sections of the drive are owned and maintained by the local farmer but the sections which have previously been patched up by the church have reached a critical condition. A recent accessibility audit by Visit Worcestershire made note that 'The approach road to the Church is currently extremely rough and uneven, making the church inaccessible for some'.
Gallery
Location Great Witley
About the space
Witley Court Drive from Great Witley village to the Church, Tea Rooms, and Witley Court. This road is not adopted by the council.
Council
Malvern Hills District Council
Journey
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Brilliant news, thanks everyone!
Whoop, 60 people have pledged since fundraising began!
How will the money be spent?Target (inc. fees) £84,736
Costs Breakdown
This shows how money raised for the project will be spent. These costs have been confirmed by the project's Delivery Manager and verified.
Target (inc. fees) £84,736
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