September 2025
Construction of the new hall continues well, though we are seeing cost increases due mainly to the scale of the foundations, the rise in steelwork costs, and the complexity of the roof. There is clearly some concern regarding these rising costs, but we are addressing this in a number of ways. It was always an ambitious project to undertake in the current financial climate, but we believe that if it’s meant to be it will happen.
The valuation of the existing temple and the new hall at completion was carried out recently, and we await the decision by Triodos regarding the loan that we have applied for.
The roof tiles were finally delivered a couple of weeks late, but we have now almost completed the roof to the upper tier, and they do look quite magnificent. We always wanted a high glaze tile, and the Laumans tiles certainly give the look we wanted. As each tier is completed we will take measurements to allow us to order the ornate roof decorations from the manufacturers in Chiang Mai. These are likely to be fitted mid 2026.
We are inviting everyone to sponsor a roof tile for £5.00 and then have your name written on the tile in the Thai tradition. If you are interested in this you could call into the temple and use one of our donation envelopes, or make your donation by BACS with the name you would like written on the tile and the reference “Roof Tile”. The temple’s bank account is:
Name: Wat Phra Singh UK
Bank: Natwest
Account No: 63121336
Sort Code: 60 08 30
Two of our monks will be returning to Chiang Mai on 5 Nov just after Kathina, and then Than Thirasak will leave on 19 Nov just before his visa expires. Luang Por Sopano, Abbot of our parent temple in Chiang Mai is now looking for new monks for us.
We will be celebrating Ork Phansa, the end of the Buddhist three month Lent period on Sunday 12 October, and then holding our Kathina ceremony on Sunday 2 Nov 25. You are most welcome to join us on these auspicious occasions.
As always, please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions,
With Metta (loving kindness
