Issue - meetings
St Mary's Old Church
Meeting: 16/10/2008 - Planning Sub-Committee (Item 6)
6 St Mary's Old Church, Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 9ES 
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Decision:
Minutes:
2008/1099 – (Full Planning Application) Erection of a part single-storey and part three-storey rear extension and change of use to provide a new community arts centre with kitchen/servery facilities and one bedroom flat with balcony at second floor level involving partial demolition of the church building. Opening hours 10:00 to 23:00 hours daily.
6.1 The Planning Officer introduced the report as set out in the agenda.
6.2 Anderson Inge, spoke in objection to the scheme, his comments are summarised as follows:
§ This was the second round of consultation, however this was not reflected on the notice on-site or on the Council’s website.
§ What was the need for the project?
§ Was the proposal financially viable as it was to be funded by the commercial flat located on-site?
§ Design inappropriate for the location.
§ Did not feel that the proposal was an enhancement of the existing building.
§ Felt the drawings were inadequate – not in colour and could not be accessed on the Council’s website.
6.3 Jonathan Clark and Matthew Lloyd spoke in support of the scheme, their comments are summarised as follows:
§ There was a need for something to be done with the structure of the building and for the church to be brought back into use and become the ‘hub of the community’.
§ Received lots of support for the activities proposed.
§ There were no plans to build on the grave yard.
§ The flat was a source of income and would allow a range of activities to be provided, to a range of different social groups.
§ The extension would provide a multifunctional flexible space, which fits the brief.
§ The proposal is very heavily conditioned, including the design and materials and they have the high aspirations for the scheme.
§ Following consultation, between 150-200 expressed their support for the scheme. All members of the St Mary’s Old Church were also thoroughly behind the proposal.
6.4 The Urban Design and Conservation Manager stated that the Council had worked closely with the architect and English Heritage and had previously visited the site. The Council strongly supports the proposal, which provides a unique new space which respects the historical architecture.
6.5 Councillor Desmond referred to boxed pews and what was planned for these, as he felt they should be preserved. Jonathan Clark explained that this would be dealt with under faculty procedures, which were not in place yet. The plan was for the oldest south aisle to be retained and restored in situ. He added that they did have the facility to store such items if necessary.
6.6 In response to a query regarding the materials, it was confirmed that the proposed materials would come back to Committee for approval.
Unanimously RESOLVED that:-
Permission be GRANTED, subject to the following conditions:
1. SCB0 – Development in accordance with plans
The development hereby permitted shall only be carried out and completed strictly in accordance with the submitted plans hereby approved and any subsequent ... view the full minutes text for item 6