Concurrently, flooding caused by a section of old timber roof shingles initiated the development of a roof replacement program 

As a state heritage listed item, any changes or adaptations to St Mary’s require sensitive intervention. Having previously contributed to a masterplan and long-term fabric plans, HAA was familiar with the issues. Although a relatively small project, the process for the new toilet was nonetheless complex and comprehensive, requiring careful planning from start to finish. In order to meet accessibility requirements, HAA assessed the various location options while also considering the ease of access for all possible users including contractors. Once a suitable site had been agreed, HAA oversaw the design, consent process and construction of the toilet block.

A few flooding incidents in the Church building required the development of a roof replacement plan. HAA analysed various roof covering options, considering both short and long-term solutions, as well as coordinating the budget needed to implement a staged roof replacement within a 5-year timeframe. After weighing historical authenticity, the Church’s budget and its needs, slate was selected as the roofing material. Stage 1 of the roof project replaced the roof covering at the east chancel, the area that had suffered significant deterioration, leading to flooding.

Priority was given to balancing the requirements of heritage conservation and accessibility standards which are rigid and demanding. This required carefully coordinated stakeholder approvals while ensuring compliance with heritage regulations. HAA oversaw tender processes for both projects, selected qualified contractors, and maintained efficient contract administration. Regular monitoring of access and safety on the site ensured ongoing communication between all parties, allowing any issues to be addressed promptly while ensuring transparency and keeping the projects on schedule.

The new accessible toilet is strategically located at the centre of the site, creating a connection between the existing buildings and garden spaces. This placement added complexity to the construction process, as the busy site remained fully operational throughout the project.

A similar construction methodology was adopted for east chancel roof replacement project, with construction progress regularly updated to the stakeholders, to ensure the works did not impact any church activities. The project was successfully completed by a qualified and experienced roofer, who was selected through a rigorous tender process

These two discrete projects leveraged the momentum of a masterplan, enabling a parish not accustomed to building projects to complete two in a short timeframe. The completed works have given a new vibrancy to the church’s congregation. HAA were entrusted for all oversight from the initial planning and design phases through to the construction and final sign-off. The process and outcomes have been well received, giving confidence to the St Mary’s congregation for the implementation of the next planned stages.