Future is in doubt for group
Monday 6th October 2008, 6:59PM BST.
Members of an Oswestry theatre company fear it may have to close if a plan to change a church it uses into office accommodation is given the go-ahead.
Planning officers are recommending proposals to turn St David’s Church, Welsh Walls, into office accommodation be granted – despite claims it could spell the end of the Oswestry Musical Theatre Company.
The Lichfield Diocesan Redundant Churches Uses Committee has applied to Oswestry Borough Council to change the use of the church.
But the theatre company says it uses the building and, if it is forced to move, it could close as it cannot afford to rent commercial premises.
A report to the council planning committee says: “The theatre company’s concerns it may have to close if it cannot use the church are understandable, but are not a reason for refusing planning permission.”
Graham Bell, of the group, said: “They have not told us to leave, but if this application is approved then the assumption will be the Church will try and sell it.”
The plans will go before the council on Tuesday.
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