Planning Application on Target
The planning applications at the former Baptist Church are progressing well. The public consultation period expires on 13 July and we now expect a decision by 27 July.
Pro Bono Surveyor
In June MC Plan and Site Services offered to do the building control for our building pro bono! Helen Cook says: “We are delighted to support your project in regards to a building control application at no cost to the charity. As a company we are very passionate about supporting local charities such as yourselves and will assign a surveyor to follow the project through from beginning to end. For us in Poole this is also something very close to our hearts, an extremely valuable cause in what your charity is trying to do for homelessness in Poole.”
Planning Application Progress
R2R has had a very positive meeting with BCP Planning Officer Kate Robson and Conservation Officer Margot Teasdale in June to progress our planning application for the church. This has now been posted with a deadline of 6 July for comments. At the same time our architect is nearly finished with the drawings for building control, which we will then give to the builders for quotes.
Furniture and Office Equipment Donated
Albion Language Tour Company has donated office furniture and equipment including a full-size Xerox copier with scanner, folder and staple functions, 12 tables, some 40 chairs, filing cabinets and shelving. Manager Janet Wright says: “As we cannot accept our German students in the current crisis, we have given up our premises in favour of operating from home. We are happy to donate everything to your wonderful charity.”
Pro Bono Architect
Words from our pro bono architect Ken Morgan RIBA: “Thanks for inviting me to get involved with R2R in converting the Hill Street Chapel as a base/hub for Poole’s homeless community. It is an extremely worthwhile cause and one in which I have some personal interest.”
Pews to be Removed
Our new home is Grade 2 listed but in May we received permission to remove the pews, which has sparked lots of local interest. A local organist has also been in touch to ask for any parts of the old organ which he may be able to put to good use elsewhere. A request we are happy to grant.
Covid Impact
The coronavirus shut-down may delay our opening as we cannot start work on the refurbishment until restrictions on groups of people are lifted. However, with the help of a pro bono local architect, we are pressing ahead with planning applications and costing out building work.
