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Wednesday
27  November

Fears over the future of town's landmark building

 
21/11/2024 @ 01:06

One of Newtown's most historic landmarks is about to be sold, and town councillors are worried about its future.

The Grade II listed Baptist Church on the corner of New Church Street and New Road will be sold by auction in just over a week.

Next week, a motion is being put to the town council, urging protection for the building and future owners to protect its historic and architectural significance.

Cllr Paul Harris has proposed the motion, and Cllr Rupert Taylor has seconded it.

Cllr Harris said in his report: "There is a significant risk that, without clear and enforceable assurances, the building could be allowed to fall into disrepair, with the potential that its dilapidation could later be used as a reason to demolish or radically alter the structure under the guise of necessity for development. 

"In addition, the chapel’s historic and architectural significance is of immense value to the cultural heritage of Newtown and its community, and its preservation is of utmost importance to maintain the town’s unique character and history."

It comes after the neighbouring chapel's roof collapsed several years ago, causing significant damage after it was left to go into disrepair.

Councillors will consider the following motion on Monday evening:

"The Town Council resolves to: 1. Request that Powys County Council seeks formal assurances from any potential buyers of the Zion Baptist Chapel regarding the building’s ongoing preservation, particularly its Grade II* Listed status. These assurances should include commitments to maintain the chapel in a manner consistent with heritage and conservation standards, ensuring the building is not left to deteriorate and does not fall victim to neglect as a means of circumventing its preservation requirements

2. Press for the inclusion of binding clauses in any planning permission for the chapel that require any alterations, conversions, or development to be fully compliant with local planning and conservation regulations. This should include an obligation to obtain proper permissions for any changes to the chapel’s structure or use, with particular attention to its historical features, such as its wooden-framed sash windows and stone surrounds

3. Work closely with Powys County Council and any other relevant stakeholders to monitor the future condition of the chapel and to ensure that it remains well-maintained, with a proactive approach to preventing any future risk of demolition or unsympathetic redevelopment

4. Encourage Powys County Council to explore viable options for funding or partnership opportunities to secure the long-term preservation and potential reuse of the building, ensuring its future as an asset to the community. 

5. Raise public awareness regarding the importance of Zion Baptist Chapel and its preservation, through local media, community outreach, and support for efforts to protect this significant heritage asset 6. Recognise the potential for the chapel’s reuse and regeneration, whether as a place of worship, community space, or mixed-use development whilst being mindful that these opportunities do not come at the cost of the chapel’s historic integrity and cultural value."