Removal of two pews and two freestanding desks.

Thank you for consulting the Church Buildings Council over the proposed removal of one pew, two freestanding desks, and the installation of a contactless giving point at Idsworth, St Hubert. The Council is grateful for the documents provided. The Council is content with the proposed installation of the contactless giving point, however it would like to offer the following comments of the removal of the pews and desks.  

The Council notes that two pews at the west end of the nave are currently removed under a TMRO of which the larger is proposed to be disposed of. It is understood that the TMRO has created a more open space, especially around the 14th-century font in the north-west corner of the nave. The extent of the pew removal is therefore very limited with examples of similarly designed pews remaining. However, it is unclear from the documents provided what the significance of the pew and of the two freestanding desks is. It is advised that the PCC supply information on the significance of the pews and a floor plan as proposed to aid the Chancellor in their decision-making. Further guidance on the writing of statements of significance can be found here. 

I hope this advice is helpful. The Council has asked to see the proposals again once the PCC has supplied the information above. 

Kind regards,  

Dom Wilton 

Dominic Wilton

Assistant Church Buildings Officer

Cathedral and Church Buildings Department

Church House, Great Smith Street

London SW1P 3AZ