Canterbury Cathedral authorities have unveiled controversial plans to remodel Christ Church Gate, the cathedral's foremost entrance, into vacation lodging accessible for short-term rental.
The Grade I-listed construction, constructed between 1504 and 1521, could be transformed from workplace area into what church officers describe as "unrivalled" lodging.
The proposed one-bedroom flat would occupy the primary and second flooring of the Sixteenth-century tower.
Plans embrace an open-plan kitchen and residing space, a biofuel hearth, breakfast bar and two toilets.
The Dean and Chapter of Canterbury have characterised the lodging as "prime quality" and argue it will present sustainable long-term use for the constructing.
Christ Church Gate stands as one of many nation's most photographed Christian landmarks and serves as the first entrance to Canterbury Cathedral.
The plans have sparked fierce opposition from non secular figures and heritage campaigners.
Dr Gavin Ashenden, who served as chaplain to the late Queen Elizabeth II earlier than changing to Catholicism, condemned what he referred to as the "continued commercialisation" of the Church.
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He added: "As The Church of England continues its meltdown, it's no shock that they must go to ever growing hyperlinks to boost cash."
The chaplain stated that while the Airbnb conversion averted the "diploma of blasphemy and irresponsibility" of earlier schemes like turning cathedrals into nightclubs, he recommended locals ought to maybe be "grateful" it wasn't being reworked right into a on line casino.
Hilary Brian, chair of the Canterbury Society, branded the proposal "outrageous" and referred to as on cathedral authorities to rethink.
"The gate is such an essential piece of Canterbury's historical past, and it must be preserved," she informed Kent On-line.
Cathedral officers have defended the scheme, with a spokesperson stating: "The perfect long-term option to take care of our historic buildings, and be certain that they’re maintained for future generations, is for them for use and liked by residents and guests."
The spokesperson famous that the gate's rooms stay unrefurbished and of their present state supply "restricted use".
They emphasised the cathedral's dedication to working with conservation specialists and planners while persevering with their "centuries-old observe of hospitality".
Purcell Architects, commissioned for the transformation, famous in planning paperwork that the rooms' authentic options, together with massive fireplaces and shuttered home windows, indicated they have been "designed for home use".
This controversy follows related disputes at different cathedrals, together with Norwich Cathedral's set up of a 55-foot helter-skelter and Southwark Cathedral internet hosting a trend present in 2019.