Restoring and Reordering St Michael le Belfrey
The Belfrey needs to repair and transform its much loved medieval church building so that it is fit for purpose practically and spiritually, to serve the needs of the people of York, the region and beyond. We are seeking to undertake one of the most radical and beautiful transformations of a Grade I listed building, to deliver a far better equipped church for generations to come. This, our first major building project in 150 years, is called Impact.
Help Build The Baptism Pool!
We’re in the process of building a beautiful in-ground baptism pool at the centre of St Michael le Belfrey. We believe it will be the UK's first hydraulic, accessible baptism pool! This will make full immersion baptism possible for people with a wide range of access needs. Please consider giving and sharing far and wide!
Check out the latest updates from @belfreyimpact on Instagram
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Check out the latest updates from @belfreyimpact on Instagram 〰️
What is Impact?
Impact is all about Honouring our Past, Resourcing our Future and Empowering our Vision.
This historic project combines important repairs and conservation with the sensitive introduction of accessible and flexible spaces, better facilities and sustainable heating. We pray that upon completion this building will welcome many more people, and will encourage them to stay longer to join us in worship, participate in activities and encounter the love and peace of Jesus.
The reordered building will offer a more welcoming space that supports social action, improves our visitors’ experience and provides a medium-sized venue for the city.
We awarded the contract in June 2024 and are delighted to be working with Simpson York Limited, who offer the expertise, skills and craftsmanship required to help us with this building transformation.
Impact is due to be completed in 2027.
How is Impact Funded?
Impact is funded through church member giving, grants and fundraising, VAT reclaim under the former Listed Places of Worship scheme, PCC-allocated funds, a private loan and many very generous gifts.
The project officially began in 2018 when we received the first of several significant, anonymous donations. This enabled the PCC to employ a project manager and begin the process of selecting a principle designer. Since then all sorts of factors have meant that initial estimates have increased, so fundraising efforts are ongoing.
Regular giving, one-off donations and your fundraising efforts are all welcomed and appreciated!
Did you know you can support Impact for FREE when you shop online? Set this up and nominate “St Michael le Belfrey” at Easy Fundraising (app or website) - Impact will receive a donation of up to 5% of your purchase.
Who is Involved?
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LDN Architects is an award-winning practice based in Edinburgh and Inverness.
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Simpson York Ltd is a family-owned construction company based in York.
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The Impact Board is made up of members of our church family who have a wide range of experience in construction, heritage, design, and organisation and project leadership.
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Members of our Operations team are seconded to work on Impact:
John Hanna - Project Manager from Oct 2026 / Facilities Manager
Melissa Bryan - Project Team (Finance)
Gillian Shepherd - Project Advisor from Oct 2026
Amber Boydell Archer - Project Team (Visitor & Church Engagement)
Heidi Folland - Fundraiser & PR Advisor
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What’s Been Happening
Design Gallery
