2008: Well-known Norwich Christian businessman and Open Academy sponsor, Graham Dacre, has stepped down from the pastoral leadership team at Norwich Family Life Church, but plans for the £5m church development at Hellesdon are pressing ahead with a planning application due to be submitted shortly.

 

NFLC members were told of Graham’s decision at their meeting on Sunday May 11, with Graham and his wife Julie still remaining fully involved in, and part of, NFLC.

 

Pastor Trevor Pimlott said: "Graham has been of considerable inspiration over the last couple of years and we will undoubtedly miss his contribution. He intends, however, to remain part of NFLC and we look forward to his ongoing contribution by way of preaching and involvement in our new men's ministry, MenUnited."

 

Graham said: "Being part of NFLC has been great and I hope that in due time I will again be able to be more strategically involved. Despite all the challenges with the Academy, last year was one of the happiest years I have ever lived.   The people at NFLC are lovely and it is great to be part of such a wonderful church family."

 

Graham said: "Finding faith dealt with my past, gives me a purpose today and great hope for the future. I'd recommend the Christian faith to anyone!"

 

Plans will shortly be submitted for the new church in the grounds of the former David Rice Hospital site in the north of the city. 

 

The £5m to £6m building will house NFLC and in addition to providing space for 1000 worshippers, will provide for a cafe, administration facilities, meeting rooms, classrooms, day care, mother and toddler groups amongst other community facilities for all age groups.

The design for the new building, Norfolk's biggest church for 1,000 years, has been praised and has won an accolade in the Creative East Awards for Norwich architects Feilden & Mawson who came up with the design.

 

No decision has yet been reached in relation to the church’s existing Heartsease Lane site, which is currently being used as a crèche, pre-school and for community outreaches in the Heartsease area.