Worship

A strong example of adaptive reuse within ongoing worship is The Ascension Centre in Bitterne Park, Southampton. Rather than closing, the church underwent a transformation that has allowed it to remain a place of worship while also expanding its role as a community hub.

The project introduced a range of new facilities, including meeting rooms, a café, and a fully equipped commercial kitchen. These additions have created flexible spaces that can host community groups, events, and social activities, generating both income and wider engagement with the building. Importantly, the works were carried out in a way that preserved the church’s primary function as a worship space, ensuring services and religious gatherings remain central to its identity.

The Ascension Centre illustrates how churches can adapt to contemporary needs without losing their core purpose. By combining worship with multifunctional facilities, it has secured its long-term sustainability while strengthening its role at the heart of the local community.

More information can be discovered on the Ascension Centre website.