01/04/2026
PRESS RELEASE – Yarm Parish Church
Following the success of the church café at St Mary Magdalene on West Street in Yarm over the last three years we can this morning reveal that exciting new plans have been announced to enhance community facilities at the Parish Church, including the development of a modern café extension and the construction of a new footbridge to the north of the River Tees.
The proposed café extension aims to create a welcoming, flexible space for residents and visitors alike. Designed to complement the historic character of the church, the extension will provide a hub for social gatherings, refreshments, and community events, while supporting the church’s ongoing outreach and engagement activities.
In addition to the café development, the plans include a new pedestrian footbridge spanning the northern section of the River Tees. The bridge is intended to improve accessibility, connect local walking routes, and encourage greater footfall into the town, benefiting both the church and the wider Yarm community.
Church representatives highlighted that the project has been carefully considered to balance modern needs with heritage sensitivity. Sustainable materials and environmentally conscious design principles are expected to play a key role in both elements of the scheme.
“This is a significant opportunity to strengthen our role at the heart of the community,” said The Revd Darren Moore, the current Rector. “The café extension will build on the success of our current church café and will offer a warm, inclusive space for all, while the footbridge will enhance connectivity and make it easier for people to enjoy everything Yarm has to offer. Our regular customers can rest assured that the recipe for our cheese scones will remain unchanged!”
The proposals are currently at the planning stage, with further consultation expected to take place with local residents, stakeholders, and relevant authorities.
If approved, the project is anticipated to bring long-term social and economic benefits to the area, reinforcing Yarm’s position as a vibrant and accessible riverside town.
