PROPOSALS to build an extension to a popular 12th century church in East Dorset are set to be refused by council planners.

East Dorset District Council (EDDC) will consider plans to build a single-storey extension on St Mary’s Church in Sturminster Marshall at a planning meeting on Tuesday, April 18.

Similar plans were submitted for the Grade II listed church in 2015 but were withdrawn by the parochial church council due to concerns by the council and Historic England.

The latest scheme would see a toilet and kitchen/meeting area built on the North West side of the building. Church wardens say that improved facilities are necessary to allow the church to function properly and continue attracting new visitors.

However, EDDC are against the plans on the grounds they will have a “substantial harmful effect” upon the setting of the church.

They also cite “poor design and inappropriate materials” as reasons for refusing the application.

Commenting on the extension’s design, which features two stone ends with a middle glazed section, Historic England said it bore a “disconcerting resemblance to an orangery that might be found on a substantial house, giving it a rather domestic appearance.”

They added: “Overall, we are sympathetic to the aspirations of the parishioners to provide toilet facilities and a flexible meeting space as an adjunct to a popular church. However, we believe that that aspiration could still be met on a reduced scale, while making the extension more subservient to the historic north elevation of the church and harmonious to its appearance.”

Acting on behalf of the applicants, Morgan Design Studio said: “The proposals will result in the church being able to offer greater liturgy freedom, a more inclusive environment and allow the church and its surroundings to be used more viably, consistent with its role as a place of prayer, worship and outreach into the wider community.

“They will recognise the unifying force of our parish church, its evolving place in the community and will provide focus and purpose for the community it serves both now and in the future.

“The proposals are considered, the mass, scale, setting and materials will be sympathetic and complement the existing church.

“The positioning of the building and its relationship with adjoining buildings, existing trees or other features will not be detrimental, and there will be no adverse effect on the area in general and adjoining buildings in particular.”