Go-ahead for Abbey's £18m modernisation scheme
The first phase of an £18 million scheme to modernise facilities at Bath Abbey has been given the nod.
Council officials will now negotiate the fine detail of planning permission for plans to improve facilities at the church.
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Bath Abbey
Work includes removing walls and ceilings at Kingston Buildings to create a double height choir practice room, and alterations to the vaults under Abbey Chambers to create kitchen areas, publicly accessible toilets, storage for the abbey archives and an archive work space.
Seven years of consultation, planning and work have gone into the current plans, with 444 people recording their support for the project on the B&NES Council website.
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Rector the Rev Edward Mason said the progress so far was "a shining example of how people can work together for the community's good".
The proposals form part of a larger project known as the Abbey Footprint, which will also use the city's hot springs to heat the church.
Project director Charles Curnock said: "This is a very significant day for the abbey, for the council and the city. We can promise you that we'll continue to work closely with B&NES and all who long to see the abbey and our community flourish. Together, we want to protect the fabric of this precious building and to make it a space for everyone, and this is a big step towards this goal."
Documents submitted by the church said: "In addition to being a place of worship, the abbey is a significant visitor destination as well as a venue for concerts, performance and other events. Bath Abbey has an important role in the musical life of the city and is responsible for three choirs.
"The proposal would provide both essential and enhanced facilities across the development site."
Councillor Les Kew (Con, High Littleton) told the planning meeting: "It would be great to see this beautiful abbey coming into the 21st century.
"I commend all involved in the plans."
3 Comments
by MALCSALT
Tuesday, April 02 2013, 7:07PM
“Yes I did MG1942. My criticism from day one was accepted and Charles Curnock invited me to a meeting to show me personally the plans, which I accepted and we had an in depth discussion and we agreed to the differences in our opinions. I am not convinced that the changes will improve as nothing regarding the heating has been tried and tested. I have nothing personal against Charles, but I am not convinced he has the experience to carry the project through.”
by MG1942
Monday, April 01 2013, 5:00PM
“Macsalt - just because there's no mention of Genesis doesn't mean there will not be provision! Did you bother to investigate fully what the Abbey's intentions are when they showed their plans and a model in the Abbey? Your view fortunately, is not shared by the many who will greatly benefit from these much needed improvements.
MG”
by MALCSALT
Thursday, March 21 2013, 3:52PM
“No where in the report does it mention the proposed Genesis centre for the crypt. Will this result in more vagrants and wild dogs making a nuisance of themselves in the Abbey Churchyard and Kingston Parade. The changes proposed appears to be another Sack of Bath!”