A controversial plan to extend Nantwich’s historic St Mary’s Church has divided town councillors.
The PCC of St Mary’s has lodged an application to build a one-storey extension to the south side of the church for a new kitchen and cafe area.
However, it will mean significant alterations to the side of the Grade 1 Listed building, which dates back beyond the Civil War.
The proposed extension, which falls in the Nantwich Conservation Area, has been under discussion for two years with church officials and heritage groups.
Architects Donald Insall Associates have developed a 20-page report and drawings which were outlined at a Nantwich Town Council meeting in Brookfield Hall last night (June 10).
The extension would involve walls featuring a freestanding colonnade of red sandstone pillars, connected by double glazed panels in patterned and clear glass.
There would be a flat, stainless steel roof, and two access doors from the main church outer walls.
Cllr Stuart Hutton objected to the plans because of the historical nature of the building, while Cllr Norma Simpson said the extension designs looked like “a monstrosity”.
But in a raise of hands among other town councillors, others declined to either object or support the proposals.
The plans are to go before Cheshire East Council planners later this month, with a decision due by June 28.
You can view the plans on Cheshire East’s planning portal here.
I can’t believe this. I’ve just clicked on the Planning Portal to look at the plans and find that the consultation period for comments on this Catering Carbunkle ends today! This is our Church. What’s going on?. No wonder there aren’t many comments on the Planning Website. It’s rendered people speechless!
Please tell me this is a joke! Yes a monstrosity seems a good term, apart from anything else, who needs another café in the town, give the independent café owners a chance to survive!! or we will have more empty shops!!!
Our Church is a precious jewel which brings lots of outsiders into our town to spend much needed money in our shops and existing 30 plus café`s. Do not spoil our historical jewel in the crown. Lots of areas in our town have been “spoiled” by councillors allowing hideous buildings to be built making bad bad decisions.