St Mary's, Maldon, will open its doors at 10am, to involve the community in plans to run an arts centre within the building, alongside the Church.

Colin Baldy, Director of Music at St Mary's, said: "It is an opportunity for residents to come and see the plans for the building, and see the work of local community organisations who are getting involved in planning the future of the St Mary's Centre.

Colin Baldy, Director of Music (Photo: St Mary's Church)

"Running the St Mary's Centre alongside this central function will, however, enable it to be what it has always been: a parish church at the heart of its community."

"We would like to reassure residents that St Mary's will very much continue to be a sacred space.

"Running the St Mary's Centre alongside this central function will, however, enable it to be what it has always been: a parish church at the heart of its community."

There will be short film shown by Maldon Film Club, plus opportunities for visitors to comment on the architect's proposed plans and make suggestions.

The Church's Octagon building will be open for refreshments throughout the weekend.

In 2030, the Norman nave (the main part of the church) will be 900 years old. A programme of refurbishment and renewal has been conducted over recent years, ahead of this momentous occasion.

The tower and spire have been restored, along with the addition of a new German pipe organ to enable concerts to be held in the church. The space under the organ gallery has become an exhibition area for local artists and photographers.

Dawn Mundy, Churchwarden, said: "For 900 years, the church building has been an important landmark, and very much part of the riverside community.

Dawn Mundy, Churchwarden (Photo: St Mary's Church)

"The focus of our St Mary's Centre project is to enhance this community aspect of the church."

"Local families have had their relatives christened there, married there and buried in the churchyard - people regularly refer to St Mary's as 'our church' even if they do not regularly worship with us.

"The focus of our St Mary's Centre project is to enhance this community aspect of the church."

As the main venue for the Maldon Festival, St Mary's has already become a centre for the arts.

The Octagon currently houses events such as Harbour Meeting Point, along with a coffee and activity session, which provides a safe space for those with mental health issues. However, a larger meeting space is needed.

Ms Mundy said: "The aim of the project is to serve the community better by making the whole building a comfortable, welcoming space, alongside its primary purpose of offering worship to God.

"We are hoping the community will be as excited by the project as we are."

The open weekend will run until 4pm on Saturday, before doors open again on Sunday from 12pm until 4pm.

Learn more about St Mary's here.

Featured image used with the kind permission of the photographer: TakeT0m.