Chelmsford City Council have approved an extension to The Chapel in Woodham Ferrers in March 2023. The accommodation will comprise a one bedroomed annexe with an en-suite and open lounge/kitchenette and will provide retreat accommodation to be used in association with the use of the Chapel. It will offer members of the Chapel community a quiet place to stay and reflect for short periods of time. A retreat facility is very much part of the ministry in the Christian and Congregational tradition for those either on retreat themselves or leading a guided retreat for others.
The extension has a pitch roofed design with slate tiled roof. Elevational treatments are of red brick to match those of the previous extensions to the property and the original Chapel itself. The design is of a good quality and is respectful to the historical context of the host building in form of both design and materials selected.
The Planning Case Officer concluded: The proposed single storey side extension would satisfactorily complement the form and style of the host building and would result in no harm to the appearance of the building or the visual amenities of the surrounding local area. The enlarged building would maintain an acceptable relationship with all neighbouring properties. Off street parking would remain unchanged at the church. For the reasons given above and having regard to all other matters raised it is concluded that the proposed development is acceptable in accordance with the adopted Local Plan Policies.
Our team at Smart Planning are delighted with this outcome for The Chapel and its congregation which we all feel will be of great benefit to the local community.