PLANS have been submitted for the demolition of a church to be replaced by a new church to “meet future needs”.

The Church of the Good Shepherd, in Stanfield Road, Poole, has applied to planning officials to replace its current building with a “sustainable, long-term” church.

A design and access statement submitted with the application said: “The existing church building is located on the south west corner of the site, close to the adjacent hall building, set back from Herbert Avenue.

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“The property is not of listed status nor in conservation area.

“The proposal seeks to provide a sustainable, long term accommodation to replace the existing church building which was built as a temporary accommodation nearly 70 years ago.

“The new church building will be constructed on the same site as the existing building. However the footprint will be extended towards north-west to provide a large main entrance suitable for funerals and a level access to terrace area with a rap down to proposed parking bays,

“This additional space will accommodate a WC and an accessible WC, office, store, sound system and small kitchen.”

Developers added the new building would have “minimum visual” impact and the ridge line has been kept the same as the existing building.

Solar panels have been included in the proposals which would reduce energy costs, the statement said.

It added: “Overall the proposed building will have better environmental performance than the current building and therefore reduce carbon emissions.

“The new building will be highly insulated and airtight. The proposed external materials are durable and long lasting. High performing powder coated aluminium sash windows will provide natural ventilation.”

The existing building consists of an entrance lobby, main worship area and a vestry which is also used for meetings and as younger children’s activity room during Sunday services.

It has asbestos roof tiles and single glaze windows and there is no insulation to the fabric of the building, developers said.