TO RAISE, OR NOT TO RAISE THE ROOF

JESUS PEOPLE WANT TWO MORE FLATS

Source : 04/02/1976 Northampton Chronicle and Echo

The Jesus People, new owners of Bugbrooke Hall, which they are turning into flats, appealed to a Government inspector yesterday for permission to raise the building's roof in order to add two more flats.

Their plan was resisted at the public inquiry by officials of South Northants District Council and Mr. C. Pilcher representing the Council for the Protection of Rural England and also the Bugbrooke Village Society.

For the Jesus People, a representative said they were trying to pursue the 'very worthwhile purpose of finding housing accommodation.'

He maintained that their wish to raise the roof of the Hall 18 ins and to install dormer windows would enhance the appearance of the building. They had not prepared exact plans but sought to gain permission in principle and would negotiate the final changes with the Council.

For the Council, Mr. G. Keeniyside and Mr. Geoffrey Kenning maintained that the Georgian Hall was a listed building of special architectural interest and any alteration should be resisted.

'By raising the roof, removing chimneys and inserting dormer windows the essential character of the building which is of considerable importance in Bugbrooke would be seriously detrimental to its appearance,' said Mr. Kenning.

Mr Pilcher said the Hall was typical Regency and of classic style. Dignified and scholarly buildings like the Hall had been produced in the past. The tradition of such work had been lost - but not the workmanship. The Hall should be retained as it is.

The Jesus Fellowship gained possession of Bugbrooke Hall by outbidding South Northants Council last June when they paid £67,000 for it at auction.

The inspector, Mr. R. Holden, will announce his decision on the appeal later.