Letter of 29 March clearly confirms flooding through East Vestry door, which must be cured prior to work starting on the floor. Copy it to James Hall (IHCT) so he can take it up with the Borough.
Basil and David HatcherIHCT have progressed work on the church until the grants ran out. Consequently some internal redecorating has not been done; although rewiring is complete. Need Meryemana input to progress application for Planning Consent
Basil and David HatcherDiscussing with Mr Mellamphy, recommendation that plans for Vestry etc. are discussed with English Heritage and Ipswich Chief Planning Officer before going to far. Includes a schedule of hourly rates.
As a member of ICHT he informs that both phases of external repairs are to start in early Spring 1991 and will include re-roofing the vestry
Need to get assurance that the damp problems will be sorted out; reluctant to sign a lease otherwise. Robert Mellamphy asks for you to obtain a copy of the Council's report on the drainage at St Nicholas.
Heley, Margaret Mary (Maire) Dr (1930-2020)Quotes Hatcher's letter about flooding via vestry door; this has to be cured before a new floor is constructed; similarly rainwater entering through south Vestry door is reaching the Chancel. This is a problem outside the church, notwithstanding that medieval churches are prone to such difficulties, and has to be addressed before Meryemana Foundation expends donated funds. If IHCT gives assurances that the damp problem will be addressed, then can progress the lease and phase 1. In the meantime, hope to hold a "Blessing of Pets" and afterwards show people around the church.
Heley, Margaret Mary (Maire) Dr (1930-2020)William Dodd writing to JS Hall. Condition of all EH grants that prior written approval required from English Heritage is obtained before work commences. Hence surprised to see ICHT giving approval without EH knowledge or permission. As grant aid had been given whilst the church was in use, removal of contents requires EH approval. Meryemana's interest in the church is welcomed but they cannot introduce irreversible changes. Comments on the four main areas affected: NE Vestry, S Porch, NE Chapel, Nave and Aisles. Lengthy comments on the nature of the pews and their proposed removal; requiring that temporary removal and storage be written into the lease; continues to discuss platform over the pews; outlines conditions covering: Redecoration, free standing fitments, ground/fabric disturbance, inventory (for repair and conservation purposes), specific points in pew cataloguing and management. Finally everything has to be reinstated when Meryemana leave the church. Then, EH will not object.
English HeritageMr Earwaker lists the estimates associated with each item of work sent to him by Dr Heley on 2 November 1988 (listed overleaf)
"Total £180,000, but say £200,000"
JS Hall writes. Borough is preparing a scheme which can be done this Summer at Borough's expense.
Ipswich Historic Churches TrustConfirming that the Borough is undertaking the drainage works at St Nicholas
Ipswich Borough CouncilJS Hall writing to Warwick Elwood.
Need to keep the churches wind and water proof. Not enough money to address internal repair or decoration. Whilst including the obligation for internal repair and maintenance on the Meryemana Foundation it is unlikely that this will be enforced but expect that over the years there will be a steady improvement. Difficult to express this in a lease but happy to receive suggestions as to its drafting.
Points to consider in draft constitution; article 3, amendment accepted by the Charity Commission; Article 16, should be no acceptable, with voting approach included; Article 30, number of Trustees; draft lease - comments on repair covenants
Jackaman & SonsCopies of legal documents provided; inventory of fixtures & fittings; consider carefully the Head Lease requiring maintenance of the building
Jackaman & Sons("copy of letter to Mr Earwaker 2.11.88")
13 items of work outlined - "is necessary before the church can be put into use."