Nun's plans win approval (From Stroud News and Journal)

Nun's plans win approval

A CONVENT has been given the green light for expansion, despite strong opposition from villagers and highways officials.

Nuns of the Congregation of St Mary at St Raphael's, Brownshill have finally been granted planning permission for an extension to the convent.

Last August they asked for the plans to be drawn up because they had run out of room - a decision which has not gone down well in the Golden Valley village.

More than 40 letters of objection were sent to Stroud District Council planners and only five in support.

The main concerns were over the impact the development would have on the Brownshill Conservation Area and problems over vehicle access down a narrow lane.

Gloucestershire County Council highways department agreed that the access routes were not up to scratch and recommended refusal.

Ward councillor Sue Fellows was also totally opposed to the plans on grounds of need, size and access - her views were echoed by an SDC sites inspection panel which was generally against the plans.

Chalford Parish Council cited concerns over traffic but supported the full planning application, which was approved by SDC development control committee on Tuesday, April 30.

Planning permission was granted on a number of conditions covering materials, landscaping and access, which must be met.

The community is presently home to 26 nuns and the new accomodation will have 12 bedrooms, a guest room, library, kitchen and refectory.

The numbers are not expected to rise greatly because it will house many sisters who are presently living elsewhere in the village.