Church seeks architectural and structural support to develop new community hub in Redland

What do they need help with?

Field Church is currently seeking pro bono architectural and structural engineering support as part of a long-term project to create a vibrant, multi-use community hub in Redland, Bristol. The church began renting the disused Etloe Evangelical Church in March 2025 and is set to complete the purchase in January 2026. The vision is to transform the building into an inclusive space for connection, creativity, and care, meeting the needs of a diverse and often isolated local population.

Initial improvements have already been made, including cosmetic updates and safety measures to accommodate a growing number of users. A commissioned Carbon Report has now identified significant opportunities to make the building more energy-efficient and financially sustainable, including:

• Double-glazed windows
• Air-to-air source heating
• Roof and wall insulation
• LED lighting
• Solar panels

In addition to these essential upgrades, Field Church hopes to:

• Add a multi-use room to expand programming capacity
• Build a self-contained flat at the rear of the property for on-site staff accommodation, improving safeguarding and day-to-day oversight

To move forward, they require a professional feasibility study that will:

• Evaluate the structural and financial viability of these plans
• Help prioritise and sequence works
• Ensure all proposals comply with planning, accessibility and safety regulations
• Align the development with the church’s broader community mission

Field Church also needs a structural engineer to assess urgent concerns around the main staircase and possible subsidence at the property’s edge. Cracks near the boundary with a neighbouring home suggest ground movement, and expert input is needed to determine the necessary reinforcement—whether through cement infill or other stabilising measures. Addressing this issue is essential to ensure safety, build neighbour trust, and allow future developments to proceed on a secure foundation.

This request comes at a pivotal moment. With purchase due to complete in early 2026 and some funding already allocated, this pro bono support will shape the next phase of work—ensuring the building becomes a resilient, sustainable and welcoming home for all those who use it.

Timeline

As soon as possible

About the organisation

Field Church—formerly Bristol Vineyard—is a thriving Christian community rooted in compassion, connection, and practical service. While grounded in worship and faith, its work reaches far beyond the congregation, offering support and friendship to people of all backgrounds across north Bristol.

Located in Redland, Field Church serves a neighbourhood often seen as affluent, but where many face loneliness, disconnection, and barriers to support. The church runs activities for families with young children, older adults, cultural communities, and young people—building relationships across generations and reducing social isolation. Programmes include a Warm Welcome space, antenatal education, youth groups, and a new intergenerational choir.

Field Church’s new base at Etloe Evangelical Church is ideally placed between a preschool, a secondary school, and dense residential streets. With the right investment and professional input, it will become a vital anchor for community life—meeting emotional, practical, and social needs, and offering a place of welcome and belonging for all.

https://field.church