Work to install a new lift in a popular Ilford church hall began this week.
The Ilford Methodist church hall, Ilford Lane, has two floors that can only be accessed by flights of stairs, meaning wheelchair users cannot reach them and getting to them is challening for people with prams or limited mobility.
The decision to install the new lift was reached after consultations with the church congregation and hall users about what improvements should be made.
The work will cost £44,000 and is expected to be completed by April 28.
Funding is coming from The Veolia Environmental Trust, who have awarded £35,200 through the Landfill Communities Fund, with the church making up the rest.
Property steward Lorna Brown said: “Our hall is a warm, welcoming venue that has so much to offer people of all ages and backgrounds but a large section of the community cannot use and enjoy it. This project will open it up for all and we are so glad it is starting.”
The Executive Director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, Paul Taylor said: “We fund community and environmental projects across the UK and this one will open up this building to all. It is great to hear work is starting on Monday”.
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