Over 200 people came in to see the concept architectural plans and ideas for the repurposing of Graylingwell Chapel at the public exhibition at Graylingwell Chapel on 13th March 2017.

The exhibition was interactive and visitors voted for their favourite ideas, and also commented on the concept architectural plans by Adam Richards Architects.  CCDT staff and volunteers talked non-stop over the nine hours to visitors to the exhibition, going into more detail on the plans and vision. Verbal and written feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

Clare, Trust Director of CCDT, commented, “It is a massive confidence boost to see how well the plans have done down with local residents from Chichester.  It was a fantastic turnout. We have built upon the consultations and incorporated people’s ideas for the chapel. We really want to create something unique in the area. We are hoping to make it a very beautiful and useful resource for many years to come.”

Visitors to the exhibition also posted remarks on our Facebook page: “Excellent presentation of the vision for the building.” and “Fantastic day! You did such a good job of it! Love the plans!”

Graylingwell Chapel will be transferred to Chichester Community Development Trust later on this year.  We have been working with our newly appointed architect Adam Richards to work up the designs for the Chapel based on feedback from the community at our consultation events. We have a lot to do to get the plans and applications to apply for funding complete by the end of May and this is what the project officer, volunteer steering group and CCDT staff are working on at the moment.

The exhibition attracted people who live in Chichester, local businesses, those looking to engage with local heritage at Graylingwell and choirs, schools and community groups that need performance space.

The repurposing ideas were generally well supported and included:
•             Memory Café
•             Interactive play space for children
•             Heritage library and games
•             Performance space
•             Meeting and workshop spaces
•             Space to work and study

You can still see the exhibition plans at the Saturday community café at the Lodge (10am -12pm on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month).