Killingworth Church Completion After 150 Years Pending Council Approval

They plan to finish a church in Killingworth. It has been under construction for over 150 years! The North Tyneside Council will decide on the final work. St John’s Church is a landmark. It was built in 1869. Its north side was never finished.

The plan needs permission for an extension. It includes a lobby, library, and toilets. They hope to raise £600,000 for everything. This also includes fixing the organ. The BBC mentioned this project in April 2024.

However, some groups aren’t happy about the changes. The Victorian Society is one of them. Killingworth Village Residents Association shares concerns too.

The Victorian Society wrote to the council. They worry the design looks too commercial. They think it clashes with the church’s character. The society dislikes the zinc roof idea as well. They want the design to match the existing building.

Residents also have some worries. They fear the extension might become the main entrance. Parking could disappear with the new addition. This may increase traffic problems on village roads.

The council’s report addressed these issues, though. Their highways department sees no big road problems. Council officers think an extension is okay.

Councillors will meet on February 12 at 6pm. They will fully consider the application. The meeting is at the Cobalt HQ.