The Church of England has set a national target to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030.
A big change should secure the ‘long term viability’ of a historic Bedworth church. That is according to a planning application that All Saints Church has submitted to Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council.
It has asked for permission to install two air-source heat pumps to replace the existing gas boilers on the south west and east elevations of the High Street-based place of worship. The proposal explains that the change is for a number of reasons including the Church of England’s national target to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030.
Also, it says that, locally, the existing gas boilers are reaching the end of their life and are in desperate need to be replaced.
“Replacing them with Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) ensures the long-term viability of All Saints as a warm, welcoming, and environmentally responsible community hub,” the application states.
“This transition is essential to maintaining the church’s extensive civic, youth, and community programming while fulfilling our stewardship of this landmark building for future generations.”
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It goes on to add that the new additions are crucial, saying: “As a site that has seen three successive church buildings, each one has sought to adapt to become more appropriate and relevant for its time.
“By modernizing the heating infrastructure, we seek to keep the current building fit for purpose, ensuring its longevity and continued relevance in a changing climate.”
Grade II listed
The church is Grade II listed and the proposal explains that the plans have been ‘carefully’ designed.
“The impact of the ASHP units on the historic fabric and setting of the Grade II church has been carefully appraised,” the application states.
“To minimize visual impact, the units are sited in a modern planter and adjacent to a modern extension, finished in graphite.! A full Heritage Impact Assessment, detailing the significance of the affected elevations and the mitigation measures proposed, has been prepared by BHB Architects of Lichfield
The plan is now being considered by officers at the Town Hall and all of the proposals can be looked at by visiting the council website and searching in the planning applications section for reference 041524.
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