The magnificent St Alban’s, Becontree, stands tall against the backdrop of the Becontree estate. It was conceived as a mission church of St Martin’s in Dagenham, initially occupying a humble “Hut” before finding its current home on Urswick Road. The year was 1930, the Becontree estate was booming, and St Alban’s had become the spiritual heart of this burgeoning community.
St Alban’s is a beacon of history, built in 1933-1934, with a design that features a prominent tower with 10 bells. The church is renowned for its gothic three-light windows and the nave, which stretches an impressive 87 feet 6 inches, allowing everyone to clearly see the altar and sanctuary. The church is a testament to the generosity and faith of a woman named Violet E Wills. She donated a significant portion of the funds for the construction, providing the church with a unique blend of traditional gothic architecture and modern touches. It was a true feat of engineering and a testament to the community spirit of the time.
The church is a sanctuary for the people of Becontree, offering solace and hope. It has been around for almost a century, witnessing many changes and becoming a vital part of the local fabric. The church’s history is intricately linked with the history of the Becontree estate, a story of both hardship and resilience. Today, St Alban’s continues to serve as a place for prayer, celebration, and community outreach, its tall spire a constant sentinel over the surrounding neighbourhood.