LOCAL RESIDENTS OBJECTIONS? The original design submitted for planning permission in 1999 was for a modern building with new external walls within the existing site outline.  Elegant though the design was, unsurprisingly there was concern from local residents about replacing the existing classic Victorian building with a modern alternative. KEEPING THE ORIGINAL WALLS So the planning application was withdrawn while the possibility of using the existing external walls was considered. Whilst resulting in a much more complex build, plans were developed which would not only leave the building in its existing form, but also restore the original spires and gable points, as well as improving the degrading external stonework. The new proposal was well received and in retrospect benefits both church and community, by retaining the historic appearance of the building, and signalling clearly that is the property is still a functioning church.