Idle United Reformed Church has had a hugely positive reception following the opening and dedication of its new building. Even making the local news!

Idle URC has gone from strength to strength since opening its new multi-purpose building last year. Idle are on their fifth instalment of a building! The original building was built in 1717, although the origins of the church date back to the 1600s.

The church decided back in 2002 that they would have to act to maintain a presence in the community of Idle, just a few miles north of Bradford city centre. So they sold their fourth building, built in 1957, as well as some of the land the church owns, to fund the new building.

From 2013 onwards they rented the dance school that had since taken over their old church building, and they finally moved into the fifth chapel this year. Recently a dedication service was held. It was attended by the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Shabir Hussain and the Revd. Jamie Kissack, Moderator of the URC Yorkshire Synod. Representatives from Langtry Langton Architects and Torpoint Construction Ltd, who worked on the building also attended. The Revd. Annette Haigh, the pastorate minister, led the service. Annette is also minister at Bingley URC and Trinity Baptist/URC in Keighley.

The chapel

The building is very flexible and suitably sized, fitting up to 70 people in total. But the main area can be divided into two for use by two separate groups. The sanctuary is well-equipped with an organ and an easy-to-use soundsystem.

Some of the old furniture and panelling has been repurposed for the build

Dan Morrell, Media for Ministry Consultant for Yorkshire Synod writes: “I had the privilege of visiting Idle URC earlier this year I was amazed by the beauty of the building. The architects have done a marvellous job. The surrounding garden area is stunning too. The church is very well-equipped an adaptable to accommodate any event or community group. I wish every blessing on the congregation as they start this new chapter in the life of God’s church in this area.”

Future of the church

Graham Carter, church representative for the build, and current church secretary, says they want to encourage the local community to use Idle URC. Initiatives include a ‘See & Know’ group for pre-school children; coffee mornings and ‘Happy to Talk’ sessions. “Use of the building, in addition to acts of worship, will evolve and new ideas will be tried out,” adds Graham.

To find out more about Idle URC, visit their website here.