GREENER CHURCH PROGRAMME

Saint Hilda’s and CPCL recognise their responsibility in becoming actively involved in taking steps for improving the impact on the environment and the local community. We feel the duty to protect the most vulnerable members of our society: the oldest, the youngest, the least well off and the sick who will bear the burden of our changing climate.

Initiating energy efficient and eco-minded capital projects will ensure longevity of the Hall and the Church so that they are kept open and active for generations to come.

Many local community spaces have closed in the past few years or had activities reduced as inflation and cost of living has impacted on increased maintenance costs and families’ disposable income. Recently in 2023 three local nurseries were closed in the Crofton Park area affecting the ability for parents to access affordable childcare and increased energy costs forced community spaces to increase their fares to be able to stay open.

The focus in 2024 – 2025 is to renovate the Church Hall to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions for a more sustainable future.

Project Outline

Our goal: Reduction of energy costs and CO2 emissions by 40% in the Church Hall

Stage 1, 2024:

Double glazing units in the side room (partly paid by grants from Lewisham Energy Community Funds) Spent: £12,366 – Work Completed

Emergency escape door in the main hall (CPCL funds and community donations) Spent: £7,400 – Work Completed

Read the full report to Lewisham Community Energy Funds

Stage 2, 2025:

Ceiling insulation in the side room (PCC funds) Estimated cost: £26,000 Completion in January 2025

Installation of double-glazing units in the kitchen and main hall (Fundraising and other grants) Estimated cost: £50,000 Completion by October 2025

Donations to the Greener Church Project and support the survival of the Church Hall