When and why is Penryn Methodist Church closing? New build on cards

Penryn Methodist Church has announced the building will close by the end of summer 2023, due to its financial situation becoming unsustainable.

In April, members of Penryn Methodist Church held two meetings to discuss the future of the church’s declining financial support which was made worse by the Covid-19 pandemic.

A spokesperson for the Penryn Methodist Church said at the time: “The church needs some restoration work and does not have the funds to keep it going.

“The building is in the centre of Penryn and has rooms at the back which can be let out for parties, clubs, and any events."

Now, Reverend Andrew Mumford, of Penryn Methodist Church, told the Packet this morning (Monday) that the decision to close had been confirmed. 

He said: “Although it is sad that the building will be closed and sold, it’s a positive future for the congregation.

“Plans are in place to find bigger premises for a new Methodist church to be built, to combine both Penryn and Falmouth congregations.

“Penryn Methodist congregation is planning on doing something special on our last day in the church, although nothing has been decided yet.”

In February, the Packet also reported the plans for the former Falmouth Methodist Church building on Killigrew Street, which was sold to business partners Harry James Mils and Shaun White.

The duo owned Falmouth-based-business Solskinn – a coffee and cocktail bar located at The Poly – as well as WeSup, the paddleboard centre located at Gylly beach that the pair have run for 12 years.

Since the building closed members of Falmouth Methodist Church have relocated to New Street Church Hall, just behind the parish church of King Charles.

However, there is some positive news for both Penryn and Falmouth Methodist Church. 

Plans to combine both the churches and move to larger premises are in discussion, although a location is yet to be decided.