Saving the important landmark building - St Barnabas Church in
Dartmouth is to be discussed with neighbours, traders, the police,
local church leaders and other local groups this week.
The initial proposals for restoration works have been developed
and St Barnabas Trustees are keen to talk to the local community
to ensure that the completed scheme helps local people and brings
positive benefits to Dartmouth.
The meetings will be held at the Church on Thursday afternoon (15th
May) where immediate neighbours will have the opportunity to discuss
the proposals. Traders, the police, local church leaders and other
local groups will also be able to comment on the proposals on Friday
morning (16th May).
The proposals aim to fully restore the building, to upgrade the
existing use to provide high quality and well managed housing together
with the re-instatement of the community bookstore and associated
facilities.
These initial proposals have been worked up by the Trustees in
partnership with the local Conservation officer at South Hams District
Council, Historic Buildings Advisor at Devon County Council, Signpost
Housing Group and their professional consultants (Architects, Cost
Consultants).
The Trustees are keen to learn from local residents and groups
about their aspirations for this important building and any of their
concerns, in order for these to be taken on board in the proposals.
An exhibition is planned for the wider community on 18th and 19th
June at The Guildhall, Dartmouth from 4pm to 7pm.
Bob Trevatt, owner of the building said, " For over 20 years,
many people have benefited from staying at the church, and I am
very excited to be working with the St Barnabas Trustees and Signpost
to ensure the successful restoration of the building and to guarantee
it's future. The building must continue to meet the needs of local
people in terms of housing and community benefits."
Richard Connolly at Signpost Housing Group said, " We are
pleased to be working with Bob, the Trustees and local representatives
to safeguard this Grade II Listed building which is currently designated
'at risk'."
The building is currently open to the public as a second hand bookstore
and workshop, as well as providing emergency accommodation for homeless
single people. Planning Consent has previously been granted for
the conversion of the building for residential use.
Ends: For further information please contact Tina Partridge at
Signpost on 01258 484884 or Richard Connolly on 01752 306591 or
Claire Madron at South Hams District Council on 01803 861 369.
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