St Mary’s Church, a Victorian Gothic landmark in the heart of Burry Port, required sensitive modernisation to meet the needs of a 21st-century congregation and wider community. The brief called for the introduction of essential facilities – proper indoor toilets, a fully fitted kitchen, and a reconfiguration of access through the West wall — all designed to sit comfortably within the historic fabric.
The centrepiece of the project was the creation of a new mezzanine level with glazed balustrade and lift access. Beneath it, a flexible glazed room provides space for Sunday school and community activities, while the reconfigured main space now accommodates seating for more than 500 people. These interventions allow the church to function not only as a place of worship but also as a venue for music, arts, and local events.
The result is a church that retains its historic character while embracing a new role as a true community hub. As the Vicar, Rev Paul Davies, reflected: “The project… was specifically about contributing to regeneration in the heart of Burry Port. In addition to serving the worshipping community in the parish church, it also aims to be a centre for music and arts and a home for community groups.”
We worked closely with the PCC to create plans and visuals that supported their funding applications and permissions. Since completion, we have continued to assist with further renovation projects, ensuring the church remains well equipped to serve its community long into the future.