Killingworth Church Could Be Finished After 150 Years Delay

They finally want to finish a Killingworth church. It has been under construction for over 150 years. Next week, the council planning group will discuss it. They need to decide on finishing St John’s Church.

This church is in Killingworth Village. It is a significant, protected building. Construction started back in 1869. But, they never completed its north side.

The plans ask for permission to build an extension. This is for the unfinished north side of the church. It will include a lobby and a library. The extension also needs two new toilets there. In April, the BBC said they hoped to raise £600,000. It would pay to finish the project, including fixing the old organ.

Some people disagree with the plans. Several worry about preserving the area’s history. The Victorian Society and the Killingworth Village Residents Association both have concerns.

The Victorian Society wrote to the council. They are still worried about the design. They think it is too modern for the church. This could negatively impact the building’s historical value. The society dislikes the roof material and is against the design.

They think it should match better. The design needs inspiration from what is already there. The materials and style should be similar. The residents also worry about the entrance.

The extension might become the main entrance. They are also worried about parking. It could cause more traffic on the village roads.

The council looked into the traffic concerns. The council’s report says it is acceptable. Their highways experts see no major traffic problems. Council officers think the extension is okay.

Council members will meet on February 12th. The meeting starts at 6 PM. They will fully review this application. It is important to decide about the church.