16-02-2025
Thumbs up for 'unfinished' church extension
A church is set to be brought into the 21st Century more than 150 years after it was left incomplete.
St John The Evangelist in Killingworth was built in 1869 but its northern aisle was never completed leaving "an unattractive and unfinished facade".
North Tyneside councillors have now approved plans for an extension to that part of the Grade II-listed structure.
It will include a new entrance and toilet facilities.
Plans were submitted to the council earlier this year, following a campaign to raise £600,000 to fund this and other works.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service said the plans attracted controversy, with the Killingworth Village Residents Association claiming it would take up space in the church's carpark and result in more on-street parking.
The Victorian Society, in a written submission, said any addition "must engage more fully" with the character of the church.
However, a North Tyneside Council report stated that "the proposals would not have an unacceptable impact on highway or pedestrian safety", and held no concerns over the affected character of the building.
Wallsend central councillor, Charlie Gray said: "Churches across the country are going bust.
"If this keeps this one going and helps people access it, then this is the sort of thing that should be supported by this council."
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Project to complete 'unfinished' 1860s church begins
North Tyneside Council
