Local People Have Great Ideas For Old St. Andrew's Church - Teather

12.00.00am GMT Sat 24th Jan 2009

Sarah Teather would like to see Brent's oldest building protected for future generations

Brent's local Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Teather has encouraged people to come forward with their ideas on how to protect and preserve the old St. Andrew's Church in Kingsbury.

The church has a rich history dating back to the Romans. It sat at the centre of Kingsbury at the time of the Doomsday Book, and is thought to be the oldest building in Brent. Yet, despite being the borough's only Grade 1 listed building, Old St. Andrew's Church has been unused for over 50 years.

Now local community group Drama Workhouse are hoping to reuse the building as an arts resource for the local community.

Sarah attended a Community Open Day at the Church, organised by the Drama Workhouse and The Churches Conservation Trust. Activities included a heritage trail, archaeological and historical information, refreshments, and consultation with local people to find out their views on the future of the building.

Local Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East Sarah Teather said:

"I was absolutely delighted to join so many Brent residents at the old St. Andrew's Church open day. It really is fantastic to see the local community getting involved in deciding the future of Brent's oldest building.

"Old St. Andrew's Church has been at the centre of Kingsbury for hundreds of years, and it's sad to see such a special building sat empty and neglected. It's high time the building reclaimed it's place at the heart of the community, and I fully support the campaign to have the old church reopened for local people to use and enjoy.

"People have some great ideas on how we could preserve and protect the old church, and I encourage as many local residents as possible to get involved and have their say."

Related Links:

Drama Workhouse.

Churches Conservation Trust.

St Andrew's Conservation Area, Brent Council.