A MEDIEVAL Ipswich church left in decay for nearly 25 years is to be transformed into a hub of community life thanks to a grant totalling more than £1million.

A MEDIEVAL Ipswich church left in decay for nearly 25 years is to be transformed into a hub of community life thanks to a grant totalling more than £1million.

St Lawrence Church is situated in the centre of town in Dial Lane and was closed in the early 1970s.

It has been left empty ever since, littered with rubble and being used only to store furniture and garden ornaments.

The landmark building was nearly turned into a pub and restaurant in 2000 when JD Wetherspoon obtained planning permission from Ipswich Borough Council, the application was later withdrawn.

But now, thanks to a £700,000 grant from the government as well as an additional £400,000 grant from Ipswich Borough Council, the church is set to be transformed into a community centre for the use of Ipswich residents, young and old, as well as local charities and organisations.

Councillor Judy Terry said: “It's going to be a vital resource because a lot of young people complain they've got nowhere to go and they could have a youth club there, for example, and there could be all sorts of events there.”

The charity Age Concern will also have their tea rooms in the church once the renovation work is completed.

Work is due to start on the mammoth renovation project in a few weeks time and once finished will include new flooring, heating, and lighting as well as a kitchen, toilets and internet stations.

What do you think about the church being transformed into a community resource?

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