The latest changes 

For some years, discussions had taken place about the need to provide improved access for the disabled and those with walking difficulties.  For a time, a ramp was thought to be the answer, but it was eventually concluded that it would be impossible to satisfy the regulations about gradient.

In 2011, several options were debated, including adding an extension at the front of the building to provide a lift, selling the building and buying another (the village library had been closed and was being sold) and merging with another Church.  The discussions included consideration of our mission and how best to deliver it.

The overwhelming vote was to remain in the building and adapt it, so the extension idea was proceeded with and an architect engaged.  This scheme failed to achieve planning permission, so alternatives were sought, plans agreed and planning permission achieved.

We had been advised to create a comprehensive plan of all the needs, which could be achieved in stages.  Accordingly, we developed proposals for development in 4 stages and started to apply for grants.  The Church Members gave unanimous commitment to the scheme and pledged money over and above their normal contributions to support the repayment of a loan offered by the Circuit.  In fact, the pledges came to over twice the amount of the loan and the extra was paid early to enable work to start.  Together with successful grant applications, this enabled all the work to be done in a single phase, apart from restoration of the windows and provision of secondary glazing.

The contracted work replaced the original steps with a new enclosed porch at street level, provided a new lobby floor inside, also at street level, with stairs up to the worship area and down to the floor underneath.  A lifting platform serves all 3 floor levels.  An access toilet and kitchenette on the top floor makes this independent.  Removal of the communion rail and side pews, plus moving the front of the pulpit back against the wall generated an almost equal space to that lost at the opposite end. 

Large steel beams support the top floor, enabling removal of the old central pillars.  We replaced the steep staircase between the floors with a modern one with wider treads and included replacement of the kitchen to modern hygiene catering standards.

As work progressed, further grants were awarded.  So, we decided to extend the kitchen, including a section of worktop suitable for a wheelchair user, update the downstairs toilet and add an extra toilet, with a new porch at the rear, replace the front boundary wall and buy a new notice board.

The architect for the scheme was Kenneth Holmes of Vagdia and Holmes and the main contractor was A J Lynn.  Work started in September 2015 and was finished in time for reopening on 6th March 2016.
 

Hello
Hello and welcome to our church. If you are a new visitor, we have a page for you to get to know us and learn more about planning a visit.
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Planning your Visit

New to Church?

00 Welcome Welcome! Whether you've just moved to the area, or have lived here all your life, we hope our website helps you to find out everything you want to know about our Church.
 

Some key information about the church...

 

Where & when does the church meet?

Our Church meets every Sunday at 10.45 am for our Sunday Service.

We meet at:
Studley Methodist Church
Alcester Road
Studley
Warwickshire
B80 7NJ


You can see a map on our contact us page

There is limited parking available on the road outside the Church.  There is a public car park in Pool Road; a footpath leads behind Studley Infants School to the road nearly opposite the Church.
 

What should I expect when I visit the church?

You will receive a very warm welcome, particularly from the Door Steward, who will be able to answer your questions and direct you to where you need to go.
Each service is different, but will normally include hymn singing, bible reading, prayers and a sermon.
An offering for the work of the Church and the wider Methodist Circuit is usually taken.

Tea, coffee and biscuits are served after the service where there is plenty of time to meet new people and ask more questions.
 

What happens to the children at church?

Although we get few children visiting, we will provide activities suitable for the children's age.
 

Is there a dress code?

No! Please just be yourself and come dressed in your 'normal' clothes.
 

Will I have to join in?

Not at all!
You are free to simply observe or participate as much as feels comfortable for you.
 

I have more questions, how can I get in touch and ask them.

Please feel free to contact us. If you want to know more about our leaders, please visit our Staff and Leadership page.