A MULTI-million pound revamp of Sheffield Cathedral – which will help reveal its ‘hidden treasures’ – is set to start.
The £4m Gateway Project also aims to create a new modern, fully accessible entrance to the site and attract more people to visit as well as worship.
Work is expected to start in February after cathedral chiefs make the final decision on a contractor this month.
A ground-breaking service on Friday, January 18, will mark the start of the scheme.
The Rev Canon Simon Cowling, chairman of the Gateway steering group, said: “After so many years of planning we are thrilled it’s getting under way.
“The project will create a fully accessible entrance, visible from the forecourt – which is what we want people to see when they approach the cathedral.
“There is to be a new lighting system which will help people to see all the hidden treasures of the cathedral in a much better way.”
Expanded learning activities, new community work, under-floor heating, seating and a small retail area are also included in the renovation scheme.
Interpretation resources will teach visitors about the history of the building – and the people involved with it.
Canon Cowling said he hoped the refurbishment would make the cathedral ‘one of the best in the country’.
He added: “We are certainly hoping to increase our footfall of what we like to call tourists and pilgrims but also, as is the aim of every church, to expand our worshipping community.”
The Sheffield Church Burgress Trust has provided £2.1 million in funding and The Heritage Lottery Fund has added £1.34m.
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