St John the Baptist Hall Church, Broadway, Kidlington, OX5 1DD

The first stage of renovations at St John's took place in 2011-2015. The first job concentrated on roof repairs to make the whole building weather proof. Then we completely refurbished the kitchen and toilet area giving us facilities we are really proud to be able to offer everyone who uses the building.

Now, after a couple of years recovering we are gearing up for the next major set of works. These will concentrate on improvements in the main hall, which is looking a little sorry for itself. Our plans are coming together and will include:

• rewiring the entire building to modern standards - including many more power points
• replacing the gloomy hall ceiling lights with LED panels - giving much more light when needed but also providing flexible controls
• installing insulation in the roof space
• renovating the windows, including replacing the window cills
• repairing the hole in the screen dividing the hall from the chancel and hopefully refitting the screen to hang better
• sanding and sealing the floor so it's easier to keep clean
• cleaning and varnishing all skirtings, dado rails, window boards, doors, screens etc
• cleaning and painting the walls and ceiling

What a difference that will all make!

At the same time we'll be looking to some associated improvements in the "church" part, including new heaters in the vestries, Lady Chapel and porch and new chairs and carpets used on Sundays.

We are still at the stage of getting all the necessary permissions and fund-raising (we're nearly half way there) but look out for more news soon.