I AM disappointed and surprised Wyre Forest District Council's Planning Committee has rejected the proposed extension to the Holy Family Church in Bewdley.

It puts as its priority the fact that it is a Grade II listed building, yet rejects the need for facilities which a public building should have.

The church as it stands is unable to cater for improvements internally due to its unique shape and the only solution is to extend externally. Having seen the excellent model and the revised plans I can see no sense in refusal

The committee states the new proposals "would have an adverse affect on the appearance". To whom, apart from three neighbours?

Apparently 90 per cent of the building is screened by trees. The church is tucked away from the High Street and apart from clergy, regular and visiting worshippers, who would welcome the changes, the only other visitors are those interested in old Bewdley buildings and make the effort to find the church and visit.

Councillor Howard Martin's comment regarding horses and carriages being driven through conservation policies is apt. It is time planners woke up to modern needs in conservation areas. Relying heavily on conservation policies can be counter productive.

It seems strange that a previous committee allowed ugly legalised graffiti on shop fronts and windows in Load Street which is used by many more residents and visitors than a backwater off the High street!

MARTIN ATKINSON

Snuff Mill Walk

Bewdley