Chapel set for transformation

Major sponsors seeing how their money will be spent at the George Street Chapel . . . (back row), Andrew Fielding (Age UK), Adrian Walker (Lambert Walker, contractors); (centre, from the left) Henry Owen-John (English Heritage), Sara Hilton, Laura Whalley (Heritage Lottery Fund), Jeff Hinchcliffe (Age UK), Gavin Richards (Architectural Heritage Fund); (front, from the left) Sandy Roy (Heritage Lottery Fund), Yvonne Lee (chief executive Age UK Oldham) and John Prichard (architect)

THE £1.1 million refurbishment of one of Oldham’s most historic buildings starts on Monday — to the delight of the scheme’s backers.

Supporters gathered on the steps of George Street Chapel ahead of the work, which will give the grade II listed building a new lease of life.

Age UK Oldham will see years of planning come to fruition as the building — one of the oldest independent Methodist chapels in the world — is transformed into a cummunity centre. The work is expected to take around 30 weeks.

Built in 1815, the historic building will retain its chapel interior, which will be used for education work, weddings and parties. The building will also have a conference centre, tour facilities and a tearoom.

The project, co-ordinated by Age UK Oldham, has been backed by a £1 million donation from English Heritage.

The Andrew Lloyd Webber Trust Fund also donated £100,000 for the restoration of the 198-year-old church organ, and waste management firm Viridor gave £30,000 to restore a lift for disabled people.