Replacement flagpole at St Michaels Church Tower, Beccles

“Listed Building Consent is sought for the replacement of an existing flagpole including repairs to accommodate the flagpole within the timber roof structure.”

“Listed Building Consent is sought to replace a flagpole that was previously removed from the tower due to its condition. The proposed flagpole will measure 8m high and includes various other works including: • Removal of the central lead covered vertical support • Repairs to the timber beams • Installation of lighting conductor within the body of the flagpole • Reinstatement of lead roof covering • Existing ‘duck boarding’ to be reinstated and central section infilled •…”

“The site comprises the Grade I listed St Michaels Church Tower which is situated within Beccles Town Centre and Conservation Area. To the North of the tower is the Grade I Listed St Michaels Church, to the east and south are various commercial premises and the west is the cemetery for the church. Immediately surrounding the site are also several Grade II Listed Buildings and Structures.”

“Retention of a flagpole feature is important to the function of the tower as a visual focal point and landmark feature in the historic centre of Beccles. It remains in use as a flagpole, or had done until its deteriorated condition was assessed. Officers consider it of high importance, therefore, that a flagpole is retained as a feature at the top of the tower and support the proposal for replacing the existing beyond repair feature with one that matches.”

“A flagpole at high level on the roof of the tower will always be highly exposed and vulnerable to weathering and potential deterioration. Replacement over time has already an established precedent here and officers accept the further replacement of the existing flagpole in principle. 50”

“The works are considered to result in no negative impacts upon the listed structure, nearby heritage assets, the amenity of neighbouring land users or protected species. Therefore, the application is deemed complaint with all relevant local and national planning policy, and as such it is recommended that planning permission is granted.”

“Consultee Date consulted Date reply received Beccles Town Council 20 March 2026 21 April 2026 Summary of comments: No Objection…”

“Consultee Date consulted Date reply received The Beccles Society N/A 10 April 2026 Summary of comments: The Beccles Society would have preferred that the existing flagpole was repaired rather than replaced with a thinner pole of modern materials but given its exposure and the long-term maintenance benefits we can understand the desire to change materials. We would express some concern over the diagonal ties and how visible these might be from the ground.”

“The Chair commented that the Town Council were very supportive, the old flagpole caused damage to the roof, so that was part of the rationale for changing. On the proposal of Councillor Plummer, seconded by Councillor Ashdown it was…”

“That the application be approved. In conclusion, the principle and detail of the development is considered to be acceptable and in compliance with relevant development plan policies and the National Planning Policy Framework. Conditions: 1) Time Limit 2) Compliance with approved plans 9”