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15
Dec 2023
A planning expert has issued an objection to Ripon Cathedral’s plans for a £6 annex, arguing the financial benefits of the expansion have not been properly costed.
The cathedral submitted plans a year ago for a two-storey structure on part of Minster Gardens, a public open space close to the ancient building.
It said the building is much-needed and would provide a new song school for the choir, a cafe, toilet facilities and disabled access.
Ripon Cathedral said it currently welcomes 100,000 visitors a year, which could increase by 33% if the expansion went ahead, bringing in crucial revenue.
The application is yet to be considered by councillors on North Yorkshire Council but it has been controversial in the city, particularly with business owners who fear the new cafe will take trade away from them.
The plans have received an objection this month from Peter Eggleton, a planner based in Ripon with two decades of experience who has conducted more than 1,000 planning appeals as an inspector.
Mr Eggleton wrote in his objection letter that the application has left him “astonished” due its financial implications and impact on the Old Deanery hotel and restaurant which stands next to the cathedral.
The Old Deanery
After studying planning documents submitted by the cathedral, he said there is “no suggestion” of what profits the new building might make. He also questioned if the returns from the cafe would even cover the running costs of operating the new building.
Mr Eggleton said:
Ripon Cathedral declined to respond to Mr Eggleton’s comments but it issued the following statement about the plans last month:
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