In September 2024 St Richard's celebrated 60 years since Norman Wates laid the foundation stone of this building at the heart of the estate which bears his name.  Earlier that year the building’s importance was recognised by Historic England when they added it to the National Heritage List, describing it as ‘a striking and technically bold example of a post-war church, of special interest for its unusual plan, structural innovation and interior artwork.’ You can read more about that on page entitled 'Our iconic building'.

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However, the long-term survival of the building is threatened by a failure of part of the roof and severe water ingress. In April 2025 Historic England therefore agreed to add it to the "Heritage At Risk" register, such is their concern about the current state of deterioration. They have also agreed that it would be wise to cover the building with a scaffolding canopy as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration to the building.  For the Design and Access Statement from our Architects please click here.   To see drawings of the plans please click here and here.

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Architectural experts, the Twentieth-Century Society, our MP, Richmond Council and Southwark Diocese all agree it must be saved, though the cost is now predicted to exceed £2.5m.  Thanks to fundraising by the congregation and generous giving by individuals and groups, over £275,000 has been raised so far. Having also received a significant development stage grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (see front page) we are now working towards a major delivery stage bid from the same source.  This would cover a large part of the cost, but we still need to raise significant sum ourselves, so fundraising events are continuing, and we are very grateful to any support from anyone who would like to help save this glorious architectural gem.  You can give to the project here, or contact us by email to get our bank details or to be kept updated about the appeal.

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