Building plan could be good for the Howff

I CAN’T believe the Howff conservation group is objecting to the plans for a restaurant jutting into the ancient graveyard.

If I remember correctly from the original article, the area will be a “box” attached to the side of the building and not involving any foundations or digging or disturbance to the ground underneath.

I don’t think this is disrespectful in any way. I think it would be a lovely way to highlight the old grounds and draw new attention to them.

Perhaps the restaurant could feature pictures and information about some of those buried there or the historical significance of the Howff. With clever lighting it would be a magical sight.

I was delighted the Howff was included in last year’s Light Night celebration and enjoyed the excuse to go in there.

It’s a very atmospheric part of the city that is, I feel, sadly underused.

Conservation group chairman Simon Goulding says he feels the idea is distasteful and sees it only as business people seeing the chance to profit from the history of the grounds.

Well maybe it is, but it could also be used to boost the conservation fund. Diners could be given the option to have £1 added to their bill to go towards the upkeep of the grounds.

I’d be happy to pay.

Good idea.

An artist’s impression of the building.