In 2010, STSMCC began discussions
about securing our own premises for the effective conduct of our Holy Qurbana
and Catechesis classes. We looked far and beyond within Bristol and met with
Bishop Declan of Clifton diocese to seek out any available churches to buy or
lease. Since this option did not come to fruition, we started to look for
properties suitable for a church that would meet our needs. We registered as a
charity and formed a Director Board under Syro-Malabar Co-ordinator Fr Thomas
Paradayil MST.
On 31st July 2018, we became a Mission, and the area under the Mission was extended to cover Bristol, Trowbridge, Bath, Weston-Super-Mare.
In Nov 2018, we were successful
in our bid and secured the land at Siston Common, Bristol previously known as
Bridge House Farm. Prior to the bid, we conducted a feasibility study with a
pre-planning application to South Gloucestershire Council.
Soon we commenced the planning work and formed a building committee within STSMCC for planning and fundraising. Various feasibility options were explored through several meetings, and we have achieved great strides in progressing our dream project through the pandemic.
Project Development |
02/12/2018 - Foundation stone
was blessed by Major Archbishop George Alencherry. |
2019 - Planning process
commenced, and a Consultant Architect was appointed to develop a sustainable
design and to preserve the ecosystem of the Commons land. The structure is
modelled in the traditional Syro-Malabar church design, customised internally
for the community. |
Oct 2019 - Planning application
was submitted to South Gloucestershire Council. |
Aug 2020 - Application was
refused by the Council and the community decided to appeal against the
decision. |
Oct 2020 - Appeal process
started with appointment of an Appeal Consultant. |
Jun 2021- We were successful in
the appeal and Planning permission was granted. The architects proceeded with discharging
of planning conditions and building regulations. In the meantime, other
consultants such as Quantity Surveyor, MEP, Structural Engineers, and
Drainage Consultant were engaged in the process. Discussions progressed
with utility companies to upgrade the current infrastructure. |
Jul 2021- A Consultant
Geologist was appointed to undertake the ground investigation. |
Jun 2022- We submitted the
building regulation application, and it was approved in
Aug 2022. In the meantime, pre-commencement conditions, discharging
applications were submitted and were discharged one by one. |
Sept 2022- QS began the tender
process to employ suitable building contractors. |
Sept 2022- Permission was obtained
to demolish the existing building. |
Feb 2023- QS recommended several building contractors. The Executive Committee and Church Building Committee meet regularly throughout the above process to be appraised of building developments and approves each stage. |
March 2023- The various committees and the parish general body have agreed to proceed with the shortlisted tenders. |