Transformed Salvation Army church to reopen in September

Salvation Army leaders in Cambridge say they are delighted with the redevelopment of their church as the project enters its final stages.

The major refurbishment of the site on Tenison Road got underway in March 2021 and the new church will open to the public in September.

The Salvation Army is working with Archangel Architects on the project.

The work includes a central hub area where people attending group activities and the onsite charity shop can interact while a new commercial kitchen, prayer room, shower, modernised worship hall have also been built. 

Spaces for young people have been improved and the new site also includes rentable spaces and cycle parking.

Members of the congregation have been involved with fundraising for the project while others have been helping equip the new building’s interior

Major Martin Cordner leads the church with Major Leanne Cordner.

He said: “There seems to be a real sense of togetherness with the project. One of our members has made a new Cambridge Salvation Army pin to raise funds, while others are sourcing new and second-hand items to ensure all the rooms are fully furnished. Enthusiastic volunteers are busy assembling furniture and putting up notice boards. One of them, a carpenter by trade, is installing shelving and racking in more than 20 cupboards and spaces.”

Martin said the new church will help serve the community much more efficiently.

He explained: “The provision of a shower is key in enhancing the practical assistance we offer individuals, and the new lift now ensures all public spaces are fully accessible.

“The improved kitchen will ensure we can cater more efficiently for those in need. For community groups we have bright, modern spaces that can be hired for meetings and activities. The Hub will be a place where people can meet over coffee and find friendship.”

Martin and Leanne praised the work that has been put into the redevelopment by members of the congregation and previous leaders.

Leanne said she and her husband are thrilled to be leading the project forward.

She said: “We have been pleased to be part of the drawing together of so many good ideas in the delivery of the project. We can see significant potential for the buildings to be used by the community; we hope individuals and groups will find a home here. We know the new facilities provide a much more welcoming space for people to gather.”

The new Salvation Army church will welcome back its congregation on 11 September and will open to the public on 13 September. An official opening ceremony will take place later.

The total project cost is around £2 million. Cambridge Salvation Army is raising £1.5 million while the remainder will come from central Salvation Army funds and public appeals.