AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH
Project: Sanctuary Building Project, Avenue Baptist Church
Client: Avenue Baptist Church, Westcliff-on-Sea
Services provided: Quantity Surveying
Contract value: £725k
DCP was appointed as Quantity Surveyor on this project to extend and completely refurbish Avenue Baptist Church in Westcliff-on-Sea to create a bright, modern and flexible space for the use of the congregation and local community.
The extensive works included:
- dismantling and removal of existing organ (subsequently shipped to Germany)
- an extension to the front of the building, to create a large vestibule/meeting area,
- the creation of a fully tiled baptistery pool
- installation of two glass sided spiral staircases, leading to the balcony
- refurbishment of the existing balcony and installation of a glass balustrade
- internal remodelling to create a larger platform area, prayer room and office and improve access
- installation of a state of the art AV system and new moveable seating
Aesthetics were particularly important on this project, as was the aim to make the space as light and airy as possible. The original stonework and windows on the front façade were carefully removed and re-used within the new extension, to ensure that the new portion of the building blended well. A glass lantern was installed on the roof of the extension to flood the area with natural light and glass was also used internally for balustrades and doors, opening up the internal space.
The cross shaped baptistery included a bespoke mosaic floor which is covered by a sectional glass floor. This allows the mosaic to still be seen when the pool is not in use, while maximising the available floor space for other events.
The client was delighted with the finished project and hosted a number of events on completion, including concerts, a lecture and circus acts, to showcase the building to their congregation and the wider community.


