The plans to breathe new life into Christ Church on Bridge Street in Macclesfield are being actively supported by local MP, David Rutley.
David visited Christ Church recently and met with Diane Smith and her colleagues from the Roe-naissance Project, which is working to create a sustainable future for this historic building. The initiative is collaborating with Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) Regeneration Officers to draw up a proposal to submit to Heritage Lottery for funding to install essential facilities, together with a sound plan for the building’s future use.
Ms Smith also explained that the Project has been working with Cheshire East Council, in view of the Council’s Heritage Asset Regeneration Plan, to highlight Christ Church’s relevance to the wider plans to regenerate Macclesfield town centre. David has consistently made the case that Macclesfield’s rich heritage must be a key part of this essential task.
The Church now opens to coincide with every Treacle Market Sunday, and generally attracts around 70 visitors per opening, with significant interest from all ages. There is no charge for entry, although it is suggested that visitors make a donation towards the upkeep of the building.
Built in 1775 by Macclesfield silk merchant Charles Roe, Christ Church is constructed of brick, and utilises innovative cast iron columns to support the interior galleries. The church was declared redundant in 1983 and passed into the care of the CCT in 1985. The church is Grade II* Listed and sits within a conservation area.
Speaking after his visit, David said, “It was great to meet with Diane and the team from the Roe-naissance Project. Their plans will help to give a new lease of life to historic Christ Church. It is a vital link between Macclesfield’s silk heritage and the present day, and I will continue to actively support the Project’s work going forward.”