Pathway resurfacing works at St Marys Church, Bury St Edmunds

What was proposed

Permission was sought to replace the existing gravel and hoggin pathway with a buff or natural-coloured tar-and-chip surface and timber edging.

“Proposal: 1. Planning permission and listed building consent are sought for resurfacing works to a path behind St Marys Chuch. The proposal is part of the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn Project, to replace the existing gravel and hoggin pathway, with a new tar-and-chip surface course.”

“A buff or natural-coloured aggregate will be selected to harmonize with the historic surroundings. Timber edging will be introduced to all adjacent planted verges to provide a defined and sympathetic boundary.”

Officer report

The site

The pathway runs along the northern edge of St Mary’s Church to St Margarets Gate and is used by pedestrians and vehicles.

“Site details: 4. The application site, St Mary’s Church pathway, runs along the church building’s northern edge, spanning east to west on approximately half the length of the church. The pathway extends to St Margarets Gate with its eastern edge abutting to the existing Great Churchyard footpath leading to remains of the Chapel of charnel. It is a joint pedestrian and vehicle pathway.”

Officer report

Earlier site history

Earlier applications concerned tree works around the church and an ecclesiastical notice for alterations to the tower.

“E/95/2238/EB Ecclesiastical Exemption Notice - Alterations and works associated with internal re-ordering of tower Ecclesiatical Notice - Comment 8 September 1995”

Officer report

Consultation and representations

The conservation and heritage consultees raised no objections, archaeology requested a written investigation scheme, and the town council supported the proposal.

“Suffolk County Council – Archaeology: No objection subject to written scheme of investigation condition.”

Officer report

The decision

“Decision Listed Building Consent be GRANTED subject to the following conditions: 1 The works to which this consent relates must be begun not later than three years from the date of this notice. DEV.WS.01.04.2026 2 The development hereby permitted shall not be carried out except in complete accordance with the details shown on the approved plans and documents, unless otherwise stated. The meeting concluded at 3.14pm Signed by: Chair”

Minutes, 1 Apr 2026