Cathedral may alter controversial annexe plan as survey finds 77pc back scheme

RIPON Cathedral says it will look at potential “practical adjustments” to its plans to build a controversial £8m new annexe.

The proposed song school and cafe would be built next to the cathedral on Minster Gardens.

The Dean of Ripon, the Very Reverend John Dobson, maintains the annexe is crucial to offer 21st century facilities including new toilets whilst safeguarding the future of its choir. However, the cathedral paused its planning application to North Yorkshire Council in January following opposition.

Businesses have said it will take trade away from them while there were protests over plans to fell 11 trees.

In recent months cathedral staff held a series of 22 drop-in sessions to discuss the plans and receive feedback and found that 77 per cent who visited back the annexe plans.

The results will be reviewed so the cathedral can “identify opportunities for areas of creative thinking” and “potential practical adjustments” to the plans, however the plans must still align with the cathedral’s requirements for the new building, a spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said it received more than 900 comments during the consultation. They said: “Thank you to everyone who participated in the consultation. We value and respect the diverse opinions and concerns raised about the proposed plans and have been grateful for the opportunity to engage in meaningful and constructive conversations.

“Conversations will take place with planning officers. After this, we will share a further update on progress.” Last week, Ripon Civic Society submitted its comments to the council. It said: “The building does not work well in its location as designed other than as a functional need to provide toilets as close to the cathedral as possible, nor does it relate well to the setting or views of the surroundings.”