From Past to Present: The Restoration of St. Paul’s Church (360G-NLHF-HZ-24-00358)

The From Past to Present: The Restoration of St. Paul’s Church project will safeguard and revitalise St. Paul’s Church in Garvagh, ensuring it remains a functional place of worship, a centre for heritage engagement, and a vital community space for future generations. Our objectives are threefold: Heritage Conservation: Carry out urgent restoration work to prevent further structural deterioration of this Grade B2 listed building. Address key issues such as water ingress, dry rot, inadequate ventilation, and outdated heating/electrical systems. Ensure all restoration works align with best conservation practices while preserving the building’s architectural and historical integrity. Heritage Engagement & Education: Develop and deliver an activity program to make local heritage more accessible and interactive for a diverse audience. Implement guided tours, workshops, exhibitions, digital storytelling, and heritage interpretation to engage the community. Collaborate with schools, local history groups, and cultural organisations to create educational opportunities centred on St. Paul’s Church and the wider history of Garvagh. Community Inclusion & Sustainability: Improve accessibility by making the church more welcoming and functional for all visitors, including those with mobility challenges. Develop a long-term maintenance plan and build capacity within the community to ensure sustainable management of the church beyond the project's lifespan. Strengthen partnerships with heritage organisations, conservation experts, and local stakeholders to support the church’s ongoing role in the community. Through these objectives, we will not only preserve a historic building but also transform St. Paul’s into a living heritage hub, celebrating the cultural and historical significance of Garvagh.