MEMBERS of the public are trying to develop a church in Cam to bring it back into the heart of the community. 

Church members and volunteers want to upgrade the Quarry Chapel with a new kitchen and toilet facilities to make the small building fully accessible. 

They are currently fundraising to launch the renovation and have so far raised £40,000. 

The Quarry’s development worker, Abi Nicol said: “We need to update the building to make it fully accessible. 

“We had an informative and useful meeting where we discussed our hopes and plans for the coming year.

“There were some really great ideas and enthusiasm, we just need to get the building fit for purpose. 

“We are also looking for volunteers to design a community garden, help research the history of the quarry, setting up a community cafe and a 3D Advent calendar.

“Many people speak fondly of the chapel as a place of peace and beauty in an area where there are few community facilities.

“The improvements will ensure that everyone can access the chapel and we can host a wider range of events.

Last year the venue became the first church in Cam and Dursley registered to marry same-sex couples after members voted in favour of the move.

A series of successful community initiatives, including the 3D advent calendar, I-Spy Cam and Dursley books, Cam and Dursley photographic rainbows and the pop-up creative cafes have been held at the site.

You can donate to the Quarry Chapel fundraiser here - bit.ly/3BYlab3