Proposal
Display of 1no. externally illuminated new church sign positioned within the church grounds to the right of the main entrance.
Our Response

Holy Trinity Church is a Grade II late Georgian church, designed by HE Goodridge, situated within the Bath conservation area and World Heritage site. The site is demarcated by ashlar piers and cast iron railings contemporary to the church building, which are Grade II listed in their own right due to their significant aesthetic contribution within the Church Road streetscape.

BPT resists the principle of illuminated signage and its potential harmful impact. Bath is recognised as a low-illuminated city in which the maintained low levels of lighting complement the historic character and appearance of the city, and create a distinctive evening and night-time atmosphere. Therefore, the use of illuminated signage would be of detriment to the special qualities of the World Heritage site and the setting of multiple Grade II heritage assets, and out of character with the otherwise residential and open, green character and appearance of Church Road.

Additionally, we would question the replacement of the existing church noticeboard, currently used to display local news and community events and opportunities. Its replacement would therefore remove an aspect of Combe Down’s immediate community engagement, and the Trust is cautious that this may prompt the future erection of further signs in the vicinity and the increasingly cluttered appearance of a listed building.

Application Number: 20/02646/AR
Application Date: 24/07/2020
Closing Date: 20/08/2020
Address: Holy Trinity Church, Church Road, Combe Down
Our Submission Status: Comment