Sheffield Cathedral, a place for all people

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Artists rendering of the new entranceway by night and by day
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A Place for All People

Sheffield Cathedral is a place for all people. But at the moment our ability to offer everyone a warm welcome is reduced by the limitations of our building. Over the next few years we hope to change all that.

Firstly, the entrance. Over the years the Cathedral entrance has begun to seem dark and unwelcoming, and the steps make it difficult for many people. Our architect has drawn up plans for a splendid new entrance. It will bypass the current steps, offering easy level access into the Cathedral welcome area. It will face towards the city, creating an attractive approach across the forecourt. The new entrance will lead into a welcome area and gathering space. The present porch will be enclosed by glass.

Once people are inside the building, they will be able to enjoy new lighting, which will not only make the building bright and attractive, but will highlight the many interesting heritage features that are of interest to visitors. As they walk around, they will be guided by signs and other aids to interpretation so that they can discover more about the history of the building and its place in the life of Sheffield. Trained volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and guide visitors and guests to the right place. Features such as the Shrewsbury tombs, the screen of swords and bayonets, the HMS Sheffield memorial and the many monuments and windows associated with well-known Sheffield people will come into their own.

The Cathedral is already visited by a number of school groups, working on aspects of the National Curriculum. The project will enable us to expand this work. We will be able to provide resources for teachers to use. There will be a dedicated room where learning can be based, and a member of the Cathedral staff will coordinate the work and liaise with schools.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has already approved the project to proceed to the next stage of an application for major funding, and we are working with them on our plans. We also want to hear from people who have ideas, who can help us to fine tune our plans, who can offer time to train as a Cathedral guide or a schools visit assistant, who can help us fundraise or can offer money or gifts in kind. If you would like to help or want further information, please contact the Dean on .