Cromer church door replacement denied by council

The plans proposed replacing the rusted gates at Grade 1 listed St Peter and St Paul Church in Cromer with a new frameless glass door. 

They were lodged by the Cromer Parochial Church Council and were refused by North Norfolk District Council as they would be an incongruous addition to the building.

A planning document to North Norfolk District Council stated that the current gates are "severely rust-corroded" and "provide a very unattractive entrance to the fine church building."

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They add: "It is considered that the proposal will enhance the elevational appearance of the church building, by replacing the poor and unsightly metal gates with clear glazed doors."

Additionally, the plans point out that until the late 19th century, it is unlikely that there were any gates at the south porch as there is no evidence of any previous fittings.

It is said therefore, from a heritage viewpoint, the frameless glass doors would have a beneficial effect, in that the porch would have appeared clearer and less "fussy".

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The inside of Cromer church (Image: Newsquest)The district council refusal document said the doors have an "awkward juxtaposition of the materials" and "would appear as an incongruous addition to the grade I listed church which would have a negative visual effect on its appearance".

There are several examples of medieval churches that have had glass doors fitted locally, including Weybourne church, and St Peter Mancroft in Norwich.