PLANS to create a new path, stairs and a doorway at a grade II listed church have been approved by planning chiefs.
The proposals are aimed at making St Augustine’s Church in Thicketford Road, Tonge Moor, more accessible to members of the community including disabled people.
The grade II listed church was built in the 1880s and at the moment the only access to the crypt area beneath the church is via a set of steep steps.
The main aspects of the plans include the formation of a new path-come-ramp, alterations to the north elevation of the church to form a level access to the crypt area and a new doorway at the crypt itself.
Father Tony Davies, vicar of St Augustine’s, said: “The Parish Church Council fully considered various options for the siting of the new entrance and voted overwhelmingly for the current plans.
“This takes account of the fact the church is a grade II listed building.
“It is also proposed to provide lighting in addition to the new light above the doorway, along the pathway.
“This will allow greater access to the undercroft by both the congregation and members of the local community.”
Cllr Nick Peel, a member of the planning committee and a ward councillor for the Tonge with The Haulgh ward, said: “This is one of the best churches we have in Bolton and we are very lucky to have it in our ward as councillors.”
He added that the council has an obligation to make listed buildings like this accessible for disabled people to be able to use.
He said: “We have to remember that when these buildings were created, disability access was not something that was considered.
“I think it is right that as custodians of grade II listed buildings in this town, councillors can agree to alter the facade of buildings in order to allow disabled access.”
The council is currently under fire for its plans to cut into the facade of Bolton Town Hall to create a restaurant and cafe.
Council leader Cliff Morris has previously said that disabled access to the grade II listed town hall would need to be improved as part of those plans.