The plans involve internal re-ordering of the church providing increased flexible space for the congregation and events, connecting into the main worship space and hospitality area.

Improved access through changes to the floor levels to create level thresholds have been explored and a cloister incorporating a heritage exhibition space will provide a circulation link between the new spaces.

Providing a successful mix of quiet, contemplative spaces alongside informal social and community uses, while creating a more accessible visitor experience is key to the design.

A complete re-roofing of the chancel, nave and bell tower roofs was carried out in 2017, grant aided by the Listed Places of Worship (LPW) roof repair fund.

All roof slopes were stripped and weathered in new Tudor handmade clay peg tiles and retained tiles, where possible.  An extensive series of historic structural timber repairs were also carried out, alongside works to the surface water drainage and improvements to the rainwater goods.

The project also included historic timber repairs and works to the surface water drainage.

The nave was re-weathered in Keymer peg tiles, while the chancel and porch were in salvaged plain clay tiles that were stripped off the existing roofs.

More recently, we have undertaken the quinquennial inspection at the church.

Recent projects include the introduction of external signage to coincide with the new Hanningtons Lane opposite, as well as negotiations with the adjoining building owner to address the source of water ingress.  Ongoing assistance involves redesigning rainwater goods to cope with increased volumes of water and development of the next major phase of external conservation repair.

The final phase of an extensive re-lighting project was completed in autumn 2019.  More recently the Practice provided assistance with a significant organ project.

Images of organ courtesy of Matt Dixon, Project Manager, The Organ Project

Later, in 2015, a roof repair grant was received and the clay roof tiles were removed, timber repairs carried out to the nave and chancel roof structure and the roof was re-covered.

A Heritage Lottery grant was also received to repair the east gable wall of the grade I church. This project completed on site in summer 2018.

Repair works are being carried out to the chancel floor and alterations to the reredos to uncover the lower section of the east window.

Planning permission has been granted for a new annex, to replace the existing extension built by the Masons in the 1950s. The new building will provide a much needed hall, meeting room and additional facilities to support this thriving parish.

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The philosophy of repair was based on keeping as much original timber as possible and working with and around those pieces, replicating mouldings and introducing new carpentry joints.

Other recent projects include the conversion of a former organ chamber into a vicars’ office and the introduction of an array of photovoltaics on the roof in collaboration with Brighton Energy Cooperative (the first of its kind in the diocese).

A phase of external repairs and access improvements was completed in March 2020, followed by conservation repair of the internal fabric and parquet flooring in 2024.  The latter was a winner at the Sussex Heritage Trust Awards 2025 in the ‘Ecclesiastical Building’ category.

Several of these projects were subject to grant assistance from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Improved internal ladder access and lighting was introduced, alongside substantial repairs to the clock and bells. In addition, design work was implemented to declutter the west end of the church by designing bespoke pull-out oak cabinets to accommodate a kitchenette and crèche facilities. Further joinery items are in the process of being installed.

New glass doors etched and designed by Mel Howse have also been introduced to both the north and south porches plus the west end.