Keynsham Baptist Church launches £350,000 appeal

AN APPEAL has been launched to raise £350,000 to renovate Keynsham Baptist Church.

The Grade II listed building stands in the same spot in the High Street where it opened in 1835.

But while small repairs have been made over the years, the church now needs significant work to restore it to its former glory, ensure structural safety, and provide weather resistance.

Part of the roof is open to the sky, while roof timbers and the original ceiling have deteriorated over time. There is damp inside the building, cornices are crumbling, and walls are cracked.

As well as for worship, the church is used by groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Bereavement Support Keynsham, Slimming World and Age UK. The town council has also used it for public meetings and to support community events such as the Winter Festival.

Minister Kevin Durrant said: “We have reached a point where we must do everything possible to preserve and enhance the building for both the current community and future generations.”

Following an inspection by a building engineer and a quantity surveyor, the church has been told that £350,000 is needed to make good the roof and to resolve other issues, as well as improving community rooms, toilets and the foyer.

The fundraising effort is being led by Alan Hale, a deacon at the church, supported by a small project team.

He said: “This is a massive challenge for us. Our church is used by the community through various groups and charities, and we recognise that ongoing need.

“We hope that locally and indeed farther afield, people and businesses will recognise the benefit to the community that they will be supporting if they feel that they can make donations to our project.

“We must save and make good the church and its rooms for the wider benefit of the community in Keynsham.”

A Bath-based charitable foundation has started the ball with a £50,000 donation, though that will come as part of the overall sum once other support has been received.

To aid its fundraising, the church has launched a project website at https://www.kbc-renovation.co.uk/

Anyone wishing to discuss the funding needs or making a potential donation can contact Alan Hale on 07776493221 or or alanh.kbc@gmail.com