St Helena Hospice to Lead Redevelopment of Historic Colchester Church into Community Hub

An 11th-century church is set to be transformed into a community hub, complete with a cafe, as part of comprehensive redevelopment and revitalization initiatives. St Helena Hospice has been designated as the new partner for the Holy Trinity Church project in Colchester. The organization will assume responsibility for managing the building’s operations and its future strategic direction. Recognized as the city’s oldest standing building, the church had been inaccessible to the public until £147,000 was secured from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Mark Jarman-Howe, Chief Executive at St Helena Hospice, expressed their satisfaction at being awarded the tender to restore the church to its “former glory,” noting “tremendous opportunities for community engagement.” St Helena Hospice will spearhead the redevelopment, which has also received a £500,000 contribution through government grants. The hospice’s aspiration is for the church to serve as a community asset, integrating its historical significance with contemporary utility. Proposed features include a cafe operating up to seven days a week, a modest retail area, and adaptable meeting spaces for various community groups. The hospice also intends to organize activities such as pop-up charity shops, craft fairs, arts and craft sessions, events, and potentially host weddings. Mr. Jarman-Howe stated: “We see tremendous opportunities for community engagement and volunteering through the wide range of activities we have planned for the building. We look forward to developing Holy Trinity into a vibrant space that brings people together while preserving its heritage for future generations.” Furthermore, the church will serve as a central location for the hospice’s compassionate communities and bereavement support services. Natalie Sommers, a city councillor and the portfolio holder for communities, commented: “We received a range of creative proposals… all the applications reflected the city’s eagerness to see this historic building come back into public use. I am thrilled that St Helena Hospice will lead this project. They have a deep commitment to Colchester, and I can think of no better partner to ensure the continued success of this important venture. This partnership will also help secure the future of the 11th Century Saxon Tower – Colchester’s oldest standing building – removing it from the Heritage at Risk listing.”