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"Suggested Alternative Scheme" - includes: boarded platform over pews; ramps to East and West end of platform; 6 toilets in North Aisle; etc.
Signed: William Dodd, English Heritage 5.9.91

Jocelyn Stevens (Chairman, EH) writes: discussion at length with Dr Heley and John Gummer MP, need to clarify a few points and trusts meeting to be arranged will conclude the current uncertainties. Addresses intentions and exchanges between individuals, and expects some answers to be forthcoming to questions already asked. "We recognise that the pews do not suit your use of the church, but we are nevertheless anxious to determine their future ... to ensure that this does not entirely remove evidence of the past ... to receive grants form us for its repair."

Richard Halsey writes. A list of Architects is attached [not present] who are well known to Mrs Hester Agate (Secretary to Diocesan Advisory Committee) (also Secretary of the Suffolk Historic Churches Trust); address provided. Statutory requirements are a "minefield" for the inexperienced, so a professional adviser fully aware of the legal side is vital.

Richard Halsey writes - Meeting on 16 December with all interested parties. Purpose to determine the arrangements of the removal of the pews any any other internal furnishings for which listed building consent is required.

St Nicholas Church does still have an owner responsible for keeping it wind and weather-tight. Hope that Meryemana Foundation has not exhausted its credibility and can find suitable premises.

Richard Halsey writes. once Meryemana Foundation has considered the consents then arrange a meeting with Borough Council English Heritage and the [Redundant Churches] Advisory Board. EH may contribute to the survey of the pews. Dismantling and storage of the woodwork (the pews will dismantle into woodwork of various dates, quality and dimensions); re-use of partitioning to be considered; consideration of sequencing of the intended works. Mr Dodd & Mr Derrick [of EH] will deal with you from here.

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.

Andrew Derrick (EH) writing to James Hall (IHCT). Dept of Environment has asked for EH's input on this application. Borough Council should have informed EH but did not so the Dept has allowed EH to talk to IHCT direct. Mr Dodd's letter had a number of other amendments and clarifications, besides the pews, which have not been forthcoming. Have costed the platform covering the pews at about 40,000. The Redundant Churches board recommended to the Church Commissioners that the building was not being suitable for the Trust because of the difficulty in safeguarding the fittings under any alternative use. History has proven this to be the case. Suggest Meryemana use St Mary at Quay instead. Asks for clarification on a number of pints.
"English Heritage has invested a great deal of taxpayer's money in the fabric of St Nicholas' church, and we are anxious to ensure that the qualities that entitled it to grant aid are preserved and maintained. No other churchin Ipswich contains its wealth of internal fittings"