Named 'The Lighthouse Project', the ambitious redevelopment of St. Michael’s Church includes extensive internal and external alterations to the listed building and its grounds to create a range of multifunctional spaces to support various community activities. This is alongside retention of designated space for worship for the current congregation. The creative and sensitive adaption of this historic building is for the benefit of the local community and will create a state-of-the-art youth and community hub.
The potential destructive impact of the development on the Grade II listed parish church and the surrounding Grade II* Byker Estate was a key constraint that was managed by the planning and heritage team. These were successfully addressed with support from landscape and ecology sub-consultants. Once built however, this scheme will remove the church from Historic England’s ‘at risk’ register and ensure the long-term sustainable use of this important local historic site.
Claire Hattam, Principal Planning Consultant, said “This is a best practice example that shows why we need to be ambitious when considering new uses for our vacant and under-utilised historic buildings. Doing so is crucial if we are to save our valuable cultural heritage, reduce carbon emissions and create sustainable places for our communities to flourish."
“We are absolutely delighted to facilitate the transformation of St Michael’s for the people of Byker. This project will deliver life-changing services, particularly for young people, and be a safe and secure place for all to come and meet”.
