Methodist Cross Finds New Home
Following planning approval for its forthcoming Retirement Living development in Oakwood, McCarthy Stone, the leading manager and developer of retirement communities, recently presented representatives from Ponders End Methodist Church with the cross from the old Oakwood Methodist chapel which previously sat on the site.
The 4m tall cross, made from wood and copper, stood tall on top of the chapel for approximately 50 years and was a familiar sight for local residents and church members alike. The site was formerly used by Oakwood Methodist Church, before the congregation merged with the Southgate Church in 2014 and the building fell into disuse. Ponders End Methodist Church is a sister church within the Enfield Methodist Circuit, so it seemed only natural that the cross be offered to them.
Julie Ward, National Sales Directorat McCarthy and Stone, commented: “When we began looking at construction, it seemed such a shame to discard the cross, so when the church contacted us to find out if they could take possession of it, we were delighted to be able to deliver it to the Ponders End church. We look forward to seeing it proudly displayed in its new location.”
Mrs Sandra Rose, one of the Property Managers, at the Ponders End Methodist Church added: “We were thrilled to receive the cross. It’s part of our circuit’s history and we are delighted it will form part of our future too. Ponders End Methodist Church is still discussing where to locate it within its site, but one of the options is that it takes pride of place in our new garden once building work for an extension to the church hall is complete early next year. We’d like to thank McCarthy Stone for presenting us with the cross and we look forward to also seeing their new development take shape.”
Oakwood is a pretty town located in the London Borough of Enfield and is within easy reach of the capital thanks to easy access to the Piccadilly Line. McCarthy Stone’s proposed development – located on West pole Ave – will overlook the beautiful Trent Country Park and is located close to Oakwood Park, Enfield Golf Club and a selection of local amenities, including a Tesco supermarket, pharmacy, medical centre and dental surgery.
When complete, the new development will feature a host of one and two bedroom apartments, as well as a communal lounge, ideal for socialising with friends; landscaped gardens; a convenient guest suite should residents have friends or relatives to stay and a friendly House Manager who will oversee the development day-to-day.