Excelling Together: A New Chapter for the North England Conference

25 Sep 2025, 15:00Pastor Dr. Steve Palmer, on behalf of the North England Conference Executive Committee

Excelling Together: A New Chapter for the North England Conference

From Zulla Road to Sherwood Park: the journey continues, guided by faith

The North England Conference (NEC) is delighted to announce a significant milestone in its journey of mission and service. After much prayer, planning, and the dedicated efforts of many, the NEC has secured a new headquarters building, currently known as Vertex, located in Sherwood Business Park, Nottinghamshire. This new site will serve as the home of the Conference, marking an exciting new chapter in its history.

From Session Vision to Reality

At the 2024 Conference Session, the Plans Committee recommended that the NEC “continue the search for a replacement of 22 Zulla Road and secure a suitable headquarters for the North England Conference.” Today, with gratitude to God, that recommendation has been fully realised.

For more than a century, 22 Zulla Road has been the headquarters of the NEC. Within its walls, generations of leaders, staff, and members prayed, planned, and worked to advance the mission. As we give thanks for all that God has accomplished there, we also embrace the words of Ellen G. White: “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history” (Life Sketches, p. 196).

Members will recall that in 2024, the Conference explored the potential purchase of Asher House in Ripley. Though survey findings showed that it was not a suitable long-term solution, the process proved invaluable. It renewed determination and sharpened the focus of the search, ultimately leading to the discovery of a headquarters that truly meets the needs of the NEC both now and in the years ahead.

This achievement also stands on the vision and faithfulness of past administrations, who recognised the limitations of Zulla Road and laid the foundation for this moment. Special appreciation is extended to the NEC Building Committee, whose prayerful and diligent work has been instrumental in this journey. Truly, “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy” (Psalm 126:3).

A Home for Mission

The new headquarters will be far more than just office space. It is intended to be a centre of mission - a place where ministries are resourced, leaders equipped, and members supported. This building is not for a few, but for the entire family of the North England Conference. It stands as a resource to strengthen our shared mission and expand our collective impact for the kingdom of God.

In the words of Ellen G. White: “Our institutions are to be established to serve as agencies for the advancement of the work of God in the earth” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 59). This vision is at the heart of what the NEC seeks to fulfil through its new home.

Looking Ahead

As we step into this new season, we invite members across the Conference to join us in prayer for wisdom and guidance. Our desire is that everything done in and through these new headquarters will bring glory to God’s name. As Paul writes: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).

Further details about the transition and the dedication of the building to God’s service will be shared in due course.

With gratitude for God’s leading and with hope for what lies ahead, the NEC looks forward to this new chapter of mission, service, and growth together.