Introducing The EndsUp Building Fund Appeal
OLEM - Preserving Our Heritage
We have now come to a point in OLEM's life where some significant and costly works are required. Over the past few years, we have successfully completed the first phase of this project. We are now approaching the final stage of these major works, which will require our attention and support to ensure the long-term preservation of the church. As you will see, these are both substantial "big-ticket" items.
I remember the late Monsignor Tony Philpot once telling me that whenever you need to undertake a project at OLEM, you should always add two zeros to the estimated cost. That was certainly the voice of experience!
I am pleased to say that the first of these major projects has now been completed: the Aspire Project and the South Aisle roof repairs, which were finished earlier this year in 2026. While this represents a significant achievement for the parish, there are still further major works that will require careful planning and financial support in the years ahead.
The Rt Revd Mgr Canon E Harkness, OSB Obl
the immediate projects
The Church was built in the late nineteenth century by Rattee and Kett to a design by Sir George Gilbert Scott. Having stood on this site for more than 150 years, it is not surprising that some of the iron fixings embedded within the stonework by Victorian builders have deteriorated over time. As these iron elements corrode, they expand, causing the surrounding stone to crack, split, and, in some cases, become detached.
A major project to repair and conserve the north-west tower of the church, known as the Aspire Project, has recently been completed in response to the significant risk posed by falling stonework. However, further concerns remain regarding the central tower, the east and west apses, and the Lensfield Road elevation (EndsUp Building Project) above the church's main west entrance. These areas contain numerous pinnacles, gargoyles, and carved stone features that are vulnerable to deterioration and possible failure. Indeed, a number of pinnacle stones from the central tower have already fallen or have been removed for safety reasons and are currently stored on the roof.
Some of the very features that contribute to OLEM’s Grade I listed status, including its impressive exterior, intricate stone carvings, and architectural elegance, are now under threat from weathering, pollution, and the natural ageing of the building. These elements require urgent attention not only to preserve their aesthetic, historical, cultural, and spiritual significance, but also to ensure the safety of parishioners, visitors, and the wider public.
The tender received for this work is £1,055,813.55 plus VAT, which includes the extensive construction of wrap-around scaffolding to provide safe access to the affected areas. This major project is essential to secure the future of the building and preserve its architectural heritage for generations to come.
The proposed works will include the erection of scaffolding around the central tower, apses, and Lensfield Road frontage; specialist cleaning and conservation of the stonework using traditional lime-based methods; replacement of missing or damaged architectural features; inspection and repair of pinnacles and gargoyles; removal or treatment of corroded ironwork that threatens the surrounding stone; installation of support systems for taller statues and figures; conservation and cleaning of historic windows; inspection and repair of rainwater goods; and maintenance of the church’s lightning protection system.
All works will be undertaken by experienced conservation contractors and specialist conservators under the supervision of architects accredited in the conservation of historic buildings, ensuring that the highest standards of care are applied to this important Grade I listed church.
how you can help
- Make a Donation
As well as seeking to secure grants from trusts, foundations and other institutional donors, OLEM has created EndsUp Building Fund to enable individuals to contribute on a regular or a one-off basis towards the essential care of the building. To make a one-off donation please click on the button below:
- Make a Regular Gift
We invite you to come to the heart of our campaign by supporting our fundraising efforts as a regular giver. By making a regular monthly donation you can make a huge difference to the appeal. If you wish to support the EndsUp Building Fund by becoming a Regular Giver then please complete our Standing Order Donation Form using the button below. The form will open in a new tab. Please complete this form, save it to your computer, and then email it to olemfinance@rcdea.org.uk. You can also print this form out, complete it by hand, and post it to the address on the form. (Please note that it isn’t possible to complete this form on the mobile device.)
Please also complete a Gift Aid Form. Gift Aid is a government scheme which lets us claim an extra 25p for every £1 you donate, effectively making your donation worth 25% more! It does not cost you anything extra to sign up to Gift Aid. This is because as a UK taxpayer you have already paid tax on the money you’re donating. Once we receive your donation, we get the tax you originally paid back from HMRC to top up the donation. The Gift Aid Form can be completed electronically online by clicking the button below.
Please also complete a Gift Aid Form. Gift Aid is a government scheme which lets us claim an extra 25p for every £1 you donate, effectively making your donation worth 25% more! It does not cost you anything extra to sign up to Gift Aid. This is because as a UK taxpayer you have already paid tax on the money you’re donating. Once we receive your donation, we get the tax you originally paid back from HMRC to top up the donation. The Gift Aid Form can be completed electronically online by clicking the button below.
- Make a Large Donation or Leave a Legacy
Should you wish to make a large donation or discuss other way in which you might help, then please contact: olemfinance@rcdea.org.uk