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14
Feb
Ripon Cathedral withdraws £8 million annexe plan
Ripon Cathedral has withdrawn its planning application to build an annexe in Minster Gardens at an estimated cost of £8 million.
The scheme has proved divisive and last month Ripon City Council voted 7-1 to object to the scheme.
A final decision was due to be made by North Yorkshire Council but the Very Reverend John Dobson, Dean of Ripon, said in a statement today the cathedral will instead “work constructively with North Yorkshire Council and Ripon City Council” on new plans.
Dean John said the need for a new building “grows ever more urgent” and any new development must be part of a wider agreed plan for the city that included reviving the idea of creating a cathedral quarter.
He added:
We were saddened that Ripon City Council did not support the proposed annexe in its December meeting, despite the many eloquent arguments placed before them and the amendments that had been made to retain the beech tree. In addition, we continue to be asked for ever more proof of viability and justification within the planning system.
The debate within the city has been challenging and difficult for everyone, but especially for cathedral staff and supporters. The intention in withdrawing the current application is to allow the further development and amendment of our plans to be discussed constructively and positively – balancing the many complex constraints and opportunities.
An architect's impression of how the scheme would have looked.
Financial stability 'cannot be taken for granted'
Dean John added the financial sustainability of Ripon Cathedral cannot be taken for granted “despite comments to the contrary” and it remained “steadfast in our commitment to the vision for Ripon Cathedral”.
He added:
With growing numbers of worshippers, visitors, pilgrims, and concertgoers, along with our flourishing choir, the provision of essential facilities, including toilets, for all those who use the cathedral remains an urgent priority. We are also dedicated to protecting the fabric of the cathedral for future generations, some of which has been in continuous use for over 1,350 years and is currently at risk from its inappropriate use for essential storage.
We want to clarify that all costs for developing the proposals, and amending them to respond to the feedback received, have been covered by fundraising. I want to pay tribute to the ongoing generous support of donors and funders, along with the efforts of all who support this ongoing venture.
We now look to work constructively with North Yorkshire Council and Ripon City Council on how the essential needs of the cathedral can be met and will be asking them to share their vision for how the Cathedral Quarter will be developed.
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