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Planning approval has been granted for the construction of a rear extension to Clare Parish Church, 36 Clare Road, outside Tandragee, to provide much-needed facilities.
The planning application was lodged by Leighton Johnston Associates, Armagh, on behalf of the church’s Select Vestry.
As the church hall, itself a former schoolhouse, is a listed building, planning consent had to be sought separately.
Image: ABC planning portal
In a Design and Access Statement, the agent explained the approach taken when designing the new extension: “The project consists of the rear extension of the existing listed church hall (former schoolhouse) to provide much-needed ancillary facilities, namely a wheelchair-accessible toilet and a small kitchen to prepare light snacks and tea, etc., for social functions, meetings, classes, funeral teas and the like.
“The main part of the schoolhouse has previously been refurbished very successfully using voluntary labour, and this proposal is seen as essential to support the continued use of the building as a parish resource.
“This being a rural site, there are no nearby alternatives to fulfil these functions. The design is purposefully kept simple and subservient to the listed building, lightly connected to same with window/door openings.
“The flat roof is at the request of Historic Environment Division (HED). Whilst HED suggested the use of a cladding finish, the applicant has rejected this in favour of a more traditional render finish, which is in character with the listed church.
“The proposal affords full wheelchair access to the building, and a unisex accessible toilet facility.”
ABC Planning officers explained in their report they were very happy with what is being proposed: “Officers are of the opinion that the subject proposal would integrate sympathetically with its surroundings, it would not have an adverse impact on the rural character of the area.
“Officers are of the opinion that the proposed extension and alterations to the existing church hall, and associated site works of the established church hall, is a necessary response in order to meet the needs of the community at these public facilities.
“There will be a limited loss in space within the curtilage of the site, but officers are of the opinion that this will not encroach on the existing church or associated graveyard.”
