Cathedral pauses extension plans after backlash

Ripon Cathedral has placed its expansion plans on hold following a backlash from the local community.

The cathedral submitted proposals last year to build an extension, which would house a choir school, cafe and toilets.

But more than 2,000 people have signed a petition objecting to the scheme, with concerns mostly relating to the potential loss of 14 trees.

The cathedral said it was pausing the planning application to allow for more consultation.

Local resident Jenni Holman, who led the petition against the plans, welcomed the news.

She told the BBC: "It’s not the full battle won yet, but we’re delighted with the fact the Dean (of Ripon) seems to have taken account of the swathe of opinion that’s been growing over the last year, since the application was first put forward.

"That area in the middle of the city where the trees are is crucial. Small though it is, it’s really important to people."

The Woodland Trust, who also objected to the plans, said: "We're delighted to hear that Ripon Cathedral are reconsidering plans that would result in the tragic loss of a number of veteran, notable and mature trees.

"We would also like to extend our gratitude to the local people who have taken up the fight for these trees.

"We now encourage Ripon Cathedral to go back to the drawing board and ensure the protection of these precious trees."

The planning application remains live with North Yorkshire Council, but a decision on it will not be made imminently.

The Dean of Ripon said the cathedral wanted to be "sensitive and responsive" to people's concerns, but disputed objectors' claims that not enough consultation had been done.

He said the proposed plans had been on display in the cathedral since the summer of 2022.

Speaking to the BBC, the Very Rev John Dobson said: "Over the last year, a lot of people have expressed views.

"What we want to do is distil from that the genuine concerns that we can respond to, as well as hearing the views of people who are excited by the cathedral's proposals.

"Our congregation is growing and flourishing and I think there is growing sympathy among some people that these facilities are desperately needed.

"We want to work creatively and constructively with people and with planning officers at North Yorkshire Council to try to find a way forward."

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