Extra funds for Glenmark Church restoration

An iconic and much adored historic building in Hurunui District had received a welcomed top up to its fundraising efforts.

The Glenmark Church, which a is Category Two heritage building, has been undergoing strengthening work since 2018. This work has included a Building Consent Fee totalling $10,418.31.

At last week’s monthly Hurunui District Council meeting, Councillors unanimously agreed to waive the remaining fee of $7,918.31 (incl GST), in addition to a previous waiving of the $2,500 fee.

The Glenmark Church Project to rebuild the church currently has a funding shortfall of $300,000, of which this saving from Council has added some reprieve.

Isabel Whyte, Bishop’s Warden of the Anglican Parish of Glenmark-Waikari, said costs have increased about 40% since the work started at the beginning of 2021, including unforeseen damage. This saving will be used for constructing the disabled access.

“It is heartening and pleasing of Hurunui District Council to show this community support for a challenging restoration of a local historic building of which the Glenmark community and wider community are so proud of, collectively aiming to have it restored to its former glory.”

First opened in October 1907, Glenmark Church was funded by the generosity of Annie Townsend, daughter of the owner of Glenmark Station, George Moore.

An early Gothic Revival style constructed of brick and Oamaru stone dressing is home of the magnificent Norman and Beard Pipe organ which needs repairing, along with repairs needed for stained glass windows, new spouting and ongoing strengthening work.

The work involved to get the Church back to its hallmark standard has taken some dedicated community work, and over the past 12 years community and local grants has raised just more than $600,000.

Mayor Marie Black was delighted to see this act of generosity from Council, supporting the wonderful work of the committee and helping protect one of the District’s historic buildings.

“This will allow the church to continue to be a significant landmark for the district and its people,” said Mayor Black.

Waiving the Consent fee also provides an opportunity for Council to contribute to one of its Strategic Objectives. Under the banner of ‘Maximising Advantages – Hurunui is a unique place; we have the opportunity to do things our way,’ Council can specifically acknowledge its promise to protect what’s best for Hurunui.

Friends of Glenmark Church group is aiming for the Church rebuild project to be completed by this Christmas.