The new West Front entrance at Peterborough Cathedral has been officially opened by HRH The Duke of Gloucester.

Cambs Times: The view into the cathedral through the new glazed doors. Picture: Matthew Roberts.The view into the cathedral through the new glazed doors. Picture: Matthew Roberts. (Image: Archant)

At the ceremony the Bishop of Peterborough, the Right Revd Donald Allister, led prayers of dedication and blessing before His Royal Highness cut the ribbon and entered through the new, automatically opening glazed doors.

The new doors are sited within the 14th century cathedral porch and offer a much lighter welcome to visitors, as well as conserving heat.

“The new glazed, insulated porch means we can open the mediaeval doors pretty well all year round, thus offering the visitor a vista which encourages entry and exploration.” said the Very Revd Charles Taylor, Dean of Peterborough in his address at the service.

Easier physical access, including re-landscaping of the precincts to provide a step free approach, is the first phase of a project which will include new state-of-the-art interpretation of the cathedral’s history and a fully equipped Heritage and Education Centre.

Cambs Times: The view from inside the porch, showing access into the porticos. Pictures: Matthew Roberts.The view from inside the porch, showing access into the porticos. Pictures: Matthew Roberts. (Image: Archant)

The project at the cathedral has been supported by a £2.4 million Heritage Lottery Fund award as well as donations from charitable trusts and individuals.

Speaking during the ceremony, HRH The Duke of Gloucester pointed out that Peterborough Cathedral had been through many changes over hundreds of years in response to events such as the reformation, the civil war and the restoration of the monarchy.

So it was only right that it adapted now to the changing needs of the fast-growing city of Peterborough, he said.

After the service a reception was held in the cloisters, with catering provided by students from Peterborough Regional College, which was also visited by the Duke whilst he was in the city.

Cambs Times: Students from Peterborough Regional College serving refreshments in the cloisters. Pictures: Matthew Roberts.Students from Peterborough Regional College serving refreshments in the cloisters. Pictures: Matthew Roberts. (Image: Archant)