Norwich: Objections to Princes St former church music plans

The United Reformed Church (URC), located in Princes Street close to the junction with Elm Hill, received an application last month to have its use changed to an "arts and dance facility with capacity to host live music events with the option to serve food and drink."

Many living in the area however are firmly against the plans with flyers circulating to "say no to the nightclub."

The United Reformed Church closed in August 2020 (Image: CAM Architects)READ MORE: War of words breaks out after disabled man denied entry into city shop

Richard Eagleton, who became chairman for the Friends of Elm Hill in May this year, said: "Elm Hill needs a vision, not vodka shots - cultural promoters, not club promoters.

"The application is mis-guided and ill thought through - it's just not credible.

"Elm Hill needs some creativity to transform the building and the city has been good at finding uses for its historic buildings.

Richard Eagleton, chairman of the Friends of Elm Hill group, said the building needs a vision, not vodka shots (Image: Richard Eagleton)"What it doesn't need is another night club.

"Hopefully common sense prevails and I have faith in the city to make the right decision because this is one not to miss."

Located opposite St Peter Hungate Church, the URC dates back to 1828 - however it's been closed since August 2020.

Included in the application to the city council is a statement outlining the proposal which says: "The original architectural features of this beautiful building enhance the visitors/customers experience which will further compliment the harmony between form and function.

"The new design will retain much of the building fabric to provide the opportunity to re-use the existing building without the need for radical changes.

"The proposed use will also protect the existing layout to be maintained, to allow this wonderful building to continue to be enjoyed within its originally designed spaces."

James Lawrence, who lives in Princes Street, is another local not on board adding: "For all intents and purposes it's a night club."

The church, located in Princes Street, in 1919 (Image: Newsquest)While the application says the "proposals for the late night entertainment uses will only be permitted within the defined Late Night Activity Zone" Mr Lawrence believes it lies well outside of this.

"The noise is only going to irritate many people living nearby but also, in the long term, cause damage to the building itself and others around it because many of them are of great age and historical importance.

"This application should be denied.

James Lawrence, who lives in Princes Street, said the application should be denied (Image: James Lawrence)READ MORE: Dog with half its face missing makes miraculous recovery with city family

"The neighbourhood is in a conservation area of great local, even national importance and has long been a quiet residential area.

"To destroy this would live in infamy of the city's history - one which wouldn't be forgotten or forgiven."

The consultation date is due to be finished on September 27, with a target date of September 29.

The URC dates back to 1828 and underwent a major refurbishment in 2014 (Image: Newsquest)What the objectors say

Currently a total of 21 public comments, 20 of which are objecting the proposed plans on the Norwich City Council website.

One comment says: "The location is unsuitable and will affect the health, well-being and quality of life of those living in the area.

An example of the proposed plans for the former church (Image: CAM Architects)

"Parking and congestion is already an issue and the increase will add to the problems with delayed response times for emergency vehicles.

"I hope the application is refused."

Another added the venue would: "devastate the historic streets of Norwich."

The consultation date is due to be finished on September 27, with a target date of September 29 (Image: CAM Architects)One commenter opposing the proposal, said: "The historic, attractive and quieter part of Norwich is largely a residential one so with the noise, disturbance and possible anti-social behaviour caused, would likely become a nuisance for those living nearby."

Another objection to the plans said: "There is no need for such an establishment here because the area is suitably served by pubs and clubs in Queens Street and Prince of Wales Road."

An archive picture of the original Princes Street United Reformed Church, which dates back to 1828 (Image: United Reformed Church)