Aldeburgh Church: Have written to Fr Jolly about the options for the Tower. Note that the original architect for the tower was said by Fr Jolly not to be in business, but this is not the case. Hence there is a problem of professional etiquette and they are happy to write to Mr Reid if required to do so.
Witton Church: Noted comments on design; preliminary sketches for Board meeting on 30th [November 1954].
Covering letter for a number of drawings and letter - Bishop had accepted the approach at a discussion in Shefford yesterday (15-7-1963).
Wearing & HastingsBarry CC Hastings met Fr Mossey in Yarmouth. They are proceeding with sketch designs bearing in mind the Bishop's suggestion. Budget will need to be discussed - but they will design to ensure nothing is wasted. Advised Fr Mossey that it is best to work towards being ready for next Easter.
Wearing & HastingsReport, site drawings and Fr Hillier letter enclosed [not present]. Council have offered a third or fourth site as an alternative to King George's Avenue in their effort to improve the housing development behind. This latest offering is the best so far; suggest Diocese accept it.
Wearing & HastingsHBarry CC Hastings writes that he has net Fr Mossey in Yarmouth. Also looked at the Italian Church in Bedford - an interesting building, but better inside than out. The Bishop suggested the church at Roade - Fr Mossey agrees. So, started on designs with a view to presenting alternatives based on each building; bearing in mind that the building may become a hall instead of a church. 150 seats. need to be advised on how the local authority parking will impact the design. Budget probably £8,000.
Wearing & HastingsBishop's suggestion to move the church to the south is raised wit Council's solicitors. Suggest meeting on site when the Bishop visits in March, to discuss layout before work starts on plans.
Manuscript annotation "28 March [visit date?]"
second part of letter: new church may be built at Earl's Barton - for guidance church at Roade designed for 128 people for £4650 (includes paving and small front wall).
Missed speaking to Fr Bull at Halesworth when the Bishop was there. How is the heating working in the new chapel - let us know about that and running costs.
Wearing & HastingsBishop advised to see Fr Bull. Arrangements for 17th to see Fr Bull at the site in Leiston to discuss matters. Please advise where the site is.
Wearing & HastingsStructural state of tower [summary]:
- considerable cracks in lower tower, settlement a probable cause, other cracks in church building due to same;
- Cracks in upper tower, affecting roof area locally, indicating settlement and tower tipping;
- Flintwork cracking, coming away, loss of adhesion allows water into structure behind, possibly leading to further damage;
- waterspout too short, leading to added dampness and aggravate settlement under way
- Parapet in a bad way, stones loose, iron band may be making matters worse.
No imminent danger of collapse but the tower is "on the move" and deterioration will continue. Not recommend making good - lists significant work required - possible cost £1000. Best option to bring the tower down and continue the roof over the top of it.
Copy of the report sent to the Bishop.
Bishop approves tall window; now accommodated 200 people; cost within £6,000. Planning authority's adverse comments on previous design necessitated a complete re-design. Bishop has seen these and approved. Laying of Foundation Stone: September 21st or 22nd. The inscription can be in English or Latin - please let us know what you want as soon as you can.
Wearing & HastingsChased up Reades to do decoration in Housekeeper's sitting room. Reviewed accounts but £3,100 is the figure being reached. This has been discussed with the Bishop who was not surprised at the extra costs arising out of repairing old buildings and emphasised that Fr Reeman had not authorised extras beyond the budget of £2,850. Some help might be forthcoming form the Diocese. Exceeding the budget is not your fault. I, as the architect, must shoulder the responsibility.
Wearing & HastingsDrawings enclosed for new design as approved by the Bishop. Planning authority comments necessitated a complete re-design also approved by the Bishop. Will now seat 200 people; have approached Dawnays re steelwork & substructure; raft structure deemed best but if you have different view get in touch soon.
Wearing & Hastings