PLANS are being finalised in the rebuilding of a historic church which was devastated by a fire.
A planning application for a ‘like for like’ rebuild of Mudeford All Saints is close to being submitted, according to churchwardens.
The historic church remains fenced off in Mudeford, with only parts of its structure left standing.
As reported, Mudeford All Saints became engulfed in flames on the evening of July 14, 2022, following an electrical issue in the building.
More than 50 firefighters were called to tackle the blaze, which was described as ‘very severe’ and caused huge damage to the roof and interior.
The church has remained out of use ever since, with services moved to Stanpit Village Hall.
Last summer, it was announced a £2.7m project to rebuild Mudeford All Saints was in the pipeline.
Giving an update on January 15, churchwarden Chris Green said: “It has been a rather slow process with the restoration and rebuild but we are at last making progress and hope to submit plans to BCP very shortly.
“In the meantime, we continue to hold our services at Stanpit Village Hall, the only problem we have there is that it isn’t quite big enough, our congregation continues to grow.”
Amid the change, Mudeford All Saints church has also appointed a new vicar.
The Reverend Kathy Hicken was welcomed to the River Mude Benefice which comprises the parishes of Mudeford All Saints and St Luke's in Burton.
A service was held at St Luke's to mark the occasion, led by The Reverend Geoff Annas, Acting Bishop of Southampton and assisted by the Ven Jean Burgess, Archdeacon of Bournemouth.
St Luke’s church was described as “packed” as The Reverend Kathy Hicken was joined by the two congregations, family, local clergy and representatives from her previous parish.
Churchwarden Chris Green said: “We have now appointed Kathy Hicken as priest who was collated and installed on January 3 at St Luke's Church in Burton.
“Kathy will be working with both churches and we all look forward to working together as part of this new benefice.”
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