Renovation of St Patrick’s Church Downpatrick Organ

The renovation of the organ first registered in 2004 has never been completed due to a long running dispute with the restorer resulting in financial loss to the parish that is unlikely to be recovered. No LCF monies have been paid to reimburse expenditure to date due to the dispute although the landfill operator wishes to continue to support the parish in efforts to restore the organ. With a limited number of suitable restorers in NI, a replacement has been sourced based on recommendations from other churches and a full assessment of both work done to date and work required to complete the project undertaken. Steps taken by the parish to avoid a repetition of the current dispute and further financial loss are direct supplier payment for the new wind chest required which at c£10,000 is the highest value element of the restoration cost, a rigorous approach to reference taking and inclusion of a retention clause in the contract.