Old Chapel Purchase Complete.
The Parish Council is delighted to announce that it has completed the purchase of the former URC Chapel. This secures the long term future of Fowlmere Playgroup, will provide an additional community space and a base for the Parish Council.
Published: 6 October 2026
Old Chapel Purchase Complete.
On Tuesday 6th October Fowlmere Parish Council completed the purchase of the former URC Chapel on Chapel Lane.
Home to Fowlmere Playgroup for almost 50 years, the Old Chapel has been a key amenity in the village since it was built as a meeting house in 1780. The Parish Council has been able to purchase the Old Chapel primarily with the gift of money from Mr Ronald Arthur Ward who left £212,000 to the Council in his will. The remainder of the purchase money has been drawn from reserves with no need for a loan.
Fowlmere Playgroup’s long term future is now secure; this is wonderful news especially given how busy they are with a healthy number of children on roll. This really does demonstrate how crucial a village amenity it is. The rent they have been paying will now be paid to the Parish Council and this will more than cover the Old Chapel’s running costs.
The Old Chapel will also now become the base for the Parish Council. Meetings will be held there and an Office will be set up. The Council having its own building will also mean it can make savings of approx. £2000/year.
The hard work doesn’t stop here. We will now move into the next phase of getting the main Chapel space ready to host groups, clubs and events. If you would like to discuss setting up a group or hiring the space do get in touch. clerk@fowlmereparishcouncil.gov.uk