Over recent months, the Development Project has been gaining pace! Following the airing of the Development DVD, many people have approached the Development team with questions and comments. This is a very helpful process in our view and so we thought that people might appreciate this latest update in the form of responses to ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ (FAQs). We hope, in particular, that these questions and answers will stimulate topics for your prayer and further input on Development.

Why is the Development Project needed?

Our building makes a very visible statement to people about the relevance of Christian faith in the heart of Dundee. At present, the building limits our ministry in many ways and so limits the impact of the Christian message to those who pass by or come inside. We believe that we have a responsibility to develop this God-given resource in the best way possible for the glory of God.

At what stage is the Development process?

Right now, we are in the planning stage. A great deal has already been done. Now we are trying to refine the building plans, and to develop the business and funding plans in order to take the project to its next stage.

How much will it cost?

The exact amount is dependent on refinement of the plans and timing. It is likely to be at least £3.5 million.

Where will the money come from?

There are likely to be 4 ‘pillars’ of funding for our Development project: Statutory funding (from Government or related sources for a building of architectural significance), Trust and Foundation Funding (from funding organisations that support our building/ministry), Regional Supporters (Businesses, Organisations and individuals who want to see the heart of Dundee regenerated) and ‘Church Family’ Supporters (members of our Church and the wider church family who believe in the value of this development for future ministry).

What kinds of rooms will the new facility provide? How flexible will they be? Who can use them?

Some of the space is intended to be quite specific in its use (e.g. offices, kitchen and storage). It is likely that there will be areas specially equipped for young people (e.g. Hot Chocolate) and for very young children (e.g. crèche or similar). Advances in technology give us a great deal of scope to make attractive multi-use spaces and some parts of the building could be sectioned off from others providing self-contained use when necessary. Some rooms could be sub-divided or opened up. The aim is that the building can easily (and attractively) serve the evolving needs of Steeple Church and its ministry to the wider community.

How will you take account of the detailed requirements of those who currently use the building?

We are doing our best to consult regularly with all who use the building, and to take their views into account. We have yet to determine specific details (e.g. for kitchen, toilets, PA equipment, office requirements, room subdivisions etc.). Everyone is welcome to put views to the team at any time. We have already held one congregational lunch for this purpose, and more are planned.

Will the building be more open to the public than it is now?

We hope that, by creating spaces that can be used more frequently by ourselves and others, we can ensure that the building is staffed and more generally open to the public throughout the working week. There will be provision for this in the business plan.

The plans look quite ‘modern’ and there are some high-level walkways. Could this be off-putting for some people, or even dangerous?

Our architects are experts in working sympathetically with historic buildings. While it may be hard to imagine the developed space, all the evidence shows that introducing natural light and opening up space always makes it more attractive and enticing. Materials and finishes that look ‘modern’ (wood, glass, steel etc.) are strong, safe and low maintenance. There are many excellent examples where these materials blend very naturally in historic buildings like ours. Buildings such as Overgate and DCA both look quite modern inside but still attract a very wide cross-section of visitors. The walkway in the plans is at first floor level (not as high as the Overgate upper level). It will have strong, secure edges with high handrails and will meet safety requirements that apply to all public buildings (again, Overgate and DCA are good examples).

How long will all this take?

We don’t yet know. The schedule will depend on finalising plans and fund raising. We’ll do all that we can to make steady progress. Above all, we put our faith in God for the task ahead!

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