New Zion Christian Fellowship, tenants of Marley Chapel, owned by Church Growth Trust (CGT), have recently completed a practical and transformative extension to the rear of their building. The chapel, previously known as Marley Hall, when it served the Christian Brethren, has been home to the fellowship on Cole Green Lane since 1998 and continues to play a central role in their worship and community work.
A practical project meeting real need
Before the extension the church was working within the limitations of a small kitchen and an undersized storeroom. These restricted their ability to offer hospitality and placed pressure on their foodbank outreach which has grown significantly in recent years.
To address this the church undertook a single‑storey extension that provides a larger, more functional kitchen to support hospitality and weekly church activities. Plans also included a bigger storeroom enabling more efficient organisation and increased capacity for foodbank ministry.
Though simple in design the results have made a noticeable difference. As CGT Architect Jonny explained “It is quite a simple project in nature, but the most pleasing thing is that a simple project can really improve how the church functions in the building and allow them to offer more to the local community.”
CGT’s support every step of the way
Church Growth Trust partnered with New Zion Christian Fellowship from the outset offering support with design, planning and statutory requirements. Due to the chapel’s location in Welwyn Garden City the church needed Estates Management consent in addition to planning permission—an extra layer of approval that CGT helped guide them through smoothly.
CGT’s involvement included:
- Early design discussions
- Securing planning permission
- Obtaining Estates Management approval
- Preparing detailed drawings
- Achieving Building Regulations approval
Once permissions were in place the church took responsibility for managing the build. Throughout the construction CGT remained on hand to support. As Jonny reflected:
“Rather than there being a single defining moment our contribution was to provide consistent guidance throughout the project. At each stage we were able to advise on the necessary next steps ensuring that all consents were secured correctly and statutory compliance was maintained. Even though the church were knowledgeable and highly engaged our ongoing support helped the process progress smoothly from start to finish.”
— Jonny Heaney, CGT Architect
Strengthening gospel work in the community
The completed extension is already helping New Zion Christian Fellowship serve more effectively. The expanded kitchen supports their heart for hospitality and fellowship while the increased storage space has strengthened their Foodbank outreach which plays a vital role in supporting vulnerable households in the area.
“We have found Church Growth Trust have been helpful with advice and guidance during our extension, particularly in the design stages, helping with the planning application and with the fire strategy requirements. We are confident that their advice has ensured everything was done properly. The improved kitchen facilities will make a difference with offering hospitality and being able to store more supplies onsite will be helpful to our Foodbank team who serve the local community.”
— Caroline, New Zion Christian Fellowship
The project demonstrates what can be achieved when churches steward their buildings wisely and when CGT and local congregations work together with a shared desire to see gospel work flourish.
The accompanying photos showcase the fruit of that partnership and an encouraging new chapter in the story of Marley Chapel.
Thinking about a building project? We are here to help
Whether your project is big or small, Church Growth Trust is always happy to support you.
If you’re considering improvements to your church building, exploring early ideas or planning a larger development, our team would be delighted to discuss your vision and help you take the next steps.
To find out how we can help with design, permissions and project guidance, please contact:
Jonny Heaney – CGT Architect,
📞 01536 647162 📱 07729 082501
