Looks like Chelmsford is going ahead after all. Here is the text of a letter to be read out this week:
TO ALL CONGREGATIONS IN BRITAIN AND IRELAND
Re: Branch Relocation Project Update
Dear Brothers:
We rejoice to inform you that in June of this year, the Governing Body gave approval for the
Britain branch to relocate to new facilities that will be constructed just south of Chelmsford. The
completion date for this exciting project will be March 31, 2020.
As mentioned during the April headquarters visit, the major contracts for the roundabout,
access road and the earthworks are now underway. In just a few months, the first foundations for
the residence buildings will be laid.
Although we currently have around 100 full-time volunteers on site and many more
assisting for shorter periods, we estimate the need for 500 volunteers every day at the peak of this
four-year project. In reality, this will require many thousands in order to accomplish the work.
Therefore the focus now is to encourage all with construction-related skills to make themselves
available well in advance so that they can be invited to share as the need arises.
In the near future, we shall send a video to all congregations to explain the timeline of the
project, how to volunteer, and when key trades will be needed. Additionally, events will be
scheduled at key locations around the country to explain more fully what the needs are and how you
might share in the work.
We are also pleased to attach a newsletter showing what the new branch facilities will look
like. This will be a quarterly feature to inform all of the project’s progress, and will include ways
you can support the project.
We share the Governing Body’s confidence that the construction of this new branch facility
will have Jehovah’s blessing during the construction phase, providing great encouragement to those
who volunteer to assist as has been the case with the Warwick project. This blessing will no doubt
continue beyond that, to the time when the Bethel family moves in and continues their support of all
congregations under the supervision of the Britain branch, all to Jehovah’s praise.—Rev. 7:12.
Please be assured of our warm Christian love and best wishes.
Your brothers,
Attachment
PS to coordinators of the bodies of elders:
Please arrange for this letter to be read to the congregation at the first midweek meeting after
its receipt. Thereafter, the newsletter should be printed in colour and placed on the noticeboard.
SF