Parking Concerns Over Church Conversion to Homes in Gloucestershire

The Forest of Dean District planners' decision to move forward with a proposal to convert the Church of St John in Coleford, Gloucestershire, into twelve homes has sparked concerns about the potential parking gridlock in the area. The plan, put forward by Czero Developments, involves converting the redundant church into a mix of one to four-bedroom maisonettes and apartments. While the developers assure the preservation of key features such as the church’s timber roof structure and stained glass windows, nearby residents are worried about the insufficient parking space proposed for the development.

During a meeting, Vicky Payne, a town resident, expressed the community’s strong objections to the plans, citing the inadequate provision of 17 parking spaces for 12 dwellings. She argued that this ratio failed to consider the likely vehicle ownership of two new households, potentially exacerbating the existing parking issues in the area. Residents find it challenging to find parking, experience blockages from local business employees, and have had their vehicles damaged due to the already existing parking congestion on Boxbush Road.

Despite the concerns voiced by residents and town councillor Stuart Cox’s support for the preservation of the Grade II listed building, the committee approved the proposals, with seven members voting in favor and two abstaining. The decision to delegate the approval for listed building consent to officers was also made. However, the council emphasized the need for an independent valuation of the property to determine the developers' ability to provide affordable housing on the site.

The approval of the plan will bring 12 new units to Coleford and ensure the preservation of the historical building and its heritage assets. However, it remains to be seen how the parking concerns will be addressed as the conversion project moves forward.