Most of you would have heard by now that we are designing and building a Pavilion on the north lawn. Discussion and plans have been underway since a few years back to find a suitable overflow area to replace the current temporary tents adjacent to the Nave.
Earlier ideas were mostly concentrated on the northeast (koi pond/amphitheatre) areas. After further consultations with URA and PSM, we were advised to think of the propect of building a pavilion on the north lawn, directly on top of the CNS Sanctuary. That began another round of design submissions and discussions and the latest concept reflects the guidance given by URA/PSM. The costs will be covered by a generous donor.
Apart from serving as an overflow community area, the tent has also acted as a covered passageway for the busy thoroughfare between the West Porch and North Transept Hall. This means that we will need to obtain permission to provide an alternative. We are all aware of how difficult it can be when it is raining cats and dogs during our back- to-back Services. There is also heavy ponding in the West Porch area, an issue which is being looked at.
The audio-visual facilities at the heavily used New Sanctuary (CNS) are being upgraded. Again, thanks to a generous donor, we are able to install a new visual system which is already garnering very good feedback. The current audio system has served us very well for over ten years now. But with irreparable faults, a new system is needed.
We are also embarking on expansion plans to cope with the need for more office space, ministry rooms (Sunday school, teaching, meetings, counselling) and worship spaces. Termed “Phase 2”, this project will take 3-4 years. Some of the ideas have been presented in previous AGMs but we hope to present an actual design and estimated costs at next year’s AGM. Various groups and committees are currently working on this project.
On the heritage side, you would have also noticed that we have "quietly" launched the Bells of St Andrew’s Cathedral Project. We are praying that those who have a special interest in this project will rally around and support it. It is a heritage responsibility which we are glad to be able to finally get round to fulfil. A well written brochure can be obtained at various points in the cathedral. You can also access it here at https://cathedral.org.sg/bells
We are also planning to start restoration works for the Nave Monument. The last major restoration work was in 1991. Having spent a few years in research and experimenting with plastering works, we are now ready to do some significant restoration works, which are expected to take 2-3 years to complete. In addition, we expect significant maintenance work may be required from time to time, between major restorations. We will be tapping on our reserves but we plan to set up a new Heritage Fund as well. Keeping a Heritage fund on the radar constantly will allow members and friends to contribute on a regular basis.
We appreciate your continual support and prayers as we endeavour to be good stewards of all that the Lord has entrusted to us.
This writeup is submitted by Keith Chua, who chairs the Building and Development Committee (BDC).
