Anger at plans to extend historic church

Plans for an extension at St Lawrence parish church in Jersey have been met with anger and dismay by some local residents.

The initial plans were rejected by the Planning Department last year, but then approved upon appeal, meaning a kitchen area and disabled access toilet will be added to the rear of the church.

The building dates back to the 1100s and has seen a number of modifications over the centuries.

Local resident Sylvia Woods is against the development.

But the parish constable Deidre Mezburian, who supports it, says the extension will be for the benefit of parishioners.

She says kitchen facilities and an onsite toilet that is wheelchair accessible will mean more islanders can attend the church.

John Clarke, chairman of archaeological section of the Societe Jersaise, says he was against the development, and that he did put forward several proposals for alternatives.

However, they were unsuccessful.

Building works are due to commence in 2017.