Bids are being sought by specialist builders and carpenters to carry out a dramatic makeover to St John’s Church – one of Scunthorpe’s most visible and historic buildings.
A tender has been launched for the works which will make the whole of the Grade II listed building accessible and connected to the recently-developed gardens in Church Square.
Using Government cash from the Towns Fund, the work will create an even larger space for events and activities and allow for the development of Discover, a science and technology centre for children and families that will add to the award-wining arts and heritage exhibitions.
Cllr Rob Waltham of North Lincolnshire Council said: “We’re moving forward at pace to appoint a specialist contractor to complete the work which will bring a new lease of life to this amazing historic building.
“The plans are incredible, bringing this amazing asset back into full use and allows us to extend the attractions to include a new science and technology centre, Discover@20-21.
“Using this Government cash we have always intended to make a real difference and attract more people to the town centre.”
The works sought through the tender include extensive repairs and rebuilding of the roofs as well as the descaling, cleaning and repointing of stonework – with many of the church’s original features restored or renewed using historical evidence.
Internally, timber repairs include the eaves, architectural cornices, trusses and timber angels – as well as a full clean and repointing plus a new building management system to ensure the building is protected for years to come.
Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for safer, stronger communities, Scunthorpe, Ashby and Bottesford, said: “Making our town centres more attractive and inviting places to be is a key priority for us – we are backing our communities to grow and flourish.
“This extensive and specialist piece of work has been a long time in the making but will make a huge difference. It is really exciting to get to this point and I am looking forward to seeing the church restored to its former glory.”
It is part of the more than £80m of Government funding which has backed the council’s plans for creating a new future in North Lincolnshire. This includes cash for roads, new motorway junctions, enabling people to develop their skills and supporting communities.
This cash from the Towns Fund, Future High Streets, Levelling-Up, UK Shared comes alongside £75m for a new port development, £5m for the A15 enhancements, investment in the new university campus, tens of millions for education and the £200m plus paid to support jobs throughout the pandemic.
