As with many older buildings, the original features and facilities had started to fail, including the defective and inefficient cast iron pipework heating system. With large and regular crowds of worshippers to keep comfortable, it was necessary to replace the existing heating system with new facilities. 

However, given the protected status of the building and the cherished position it held within the diocese and the wider community, it was crucial that any planned improvements met a number of key criteria and gained approval from several parties, including the Historic Churches Committee (HCC), the diocese Trustees and the Parish themselves.