WORK has begun to renovate All Saints Church, Ryde, and enable it to better serve its community.

The renovation works began on July 10 and are due to conclude in early November 2025. The much-anticipated improvements include the installation of a new heating system, a sound system, new seating using the original pews (which will now be movable) and chairs — all carefully designed to sit beautifully alongside the church’s fantastic historic features.

The project reflects a deep commitment to preserving the rich heritage of All Saints while making the space more welcoming, accessible, and fit for purpose. The addition of a new café area at the rear will help foster connections for all generations both on Sundays and mid-week opportunities throughout the week.

The project has been shaped through careful consultation and collaboration, including detailed on-site consultation and negotiation with the Victorian Society, resulting in a renovation plan that respects the church’s unique character by retaining details such as the central cross of Victorian tiles and 60 of the original pews, while embracing thoughtful updates like the addition of a café area and more efficient heating to suit modern use.

Importantly, the life of the church will continue uninterrupted:

• The church's 9.30am Traditional Service on Sundays will move temporarily into the church hall at the rear of the building.
• The church's 11am Contemporary Sunday Service and Kids’ Church will temporarily move to the hall - but may move again to another nearby venue in Ryde as it is outgrowing the space.
• All other community groups and activities that use the hall will continue as normal.

Updates on the project will be posted on the church's website on www.ryde.church/refurb