Plans for oasis of calm in Broadmead

Friday, 29th May 2009

An 18th century style garden could be created in the courtyard of John Wesley's Chapel in the heart of Broadmead.

The trustees have put forward proposals for a £200,000 scheme to Bristol City Council. They include re-laying the present paving slabs and planting new trees and ornamental hedges. There will also be climbing plants, stone benches, carved wall plaques and new lighting.

David Worthington, manager of the chapel, said: "What we want to do is create an 18th century style garden for people to take time out, and transpose some of the peacefulness from the chapel. John Wesley was concerned about people's general wellbeing as well as their spiritual wellbeing. We hope to have plaques along the arcade wall, with quotes and hymns from John and his brother Charles for people to focus on and stimulate their thoughts. We hope this will allow us to take on a higher profile."

The chapel, known as The New Room, was built in 1739 by Wesley, one of Britain's most well-known religious figures. It is the oldest Methodist chapel in the world and survived the blitz of the Second World War. It then became part of the Broadmead shopping centre, which emerged from the rubble in the 1950s. People from all around the world visit the chapel and many Bristolians go into the chapel and its courtyard during their lunchtimes. But trustees hope to encourage more visitors.

If planning permission is granted, it is hoped the garden could be completed by the end of the year. Design work has been carried out by Olveston-based landscapers Reckless Orchard, the same company that carried out the recent refurbishment of Broadmead. Mr Worthington, 43, of Long Ashton, said around half of the funding has been raised but further donations can be made by contacting him on 0117 926 4740. The chapel is also interested in hearing from anyone who would be interested in providing benches for the garden, perhaps in memory of a loved one.