COMMENTS at a recent meeting of the Town Council reported in the local press indicate a negative view as to the future of this charming Grade II listed Victorian building. Last year, the Civic Society supported by well meaning community members, objected to the demolition of this building. It was due to this objection that information established it was indeed over 150 years old and it became listed.

A recent surveyor’s report and estimates printed suggest repair costs of £400,000 would be required. It closed as a chapel of rest a decade ago and has since been used as a storage space by the owners, Bourne Town Council. The location in the cemetery and purpose as a chapel of rest are over. The owners have asked the Civic Society for their view and it is as follows.

It is worth relocating and a change of use found. As the foundations are a contributory factor in its recent demise, a new site with firm foundations in Bourne would be required. There are such sites available to take the weight on old railway tracks and several other areas equally suitable. It is also suggested the expertise and labour is found in the town to reduce overheads such as transport and accommodation.

There are many treasures in the building and it should be the aim to retain Grade II status. The present owners are in position to promote a new site and when the project completed a residence to the value of £800,000 would be the result. There are many features to the building, so a careful dismantling by experts in the field is required. The internal fittings and decoration would suggest very interesting accommodation. A large dwelling or flats are both practical as the two main features the windows and flooring is ideal.

The Civic Society as a group of local concerned people is unable to undertake this task.

It would be in the local interest to do the work in house, saving unnecessary transport and lodging costs. This matter will be referred to later when our citizens and rate payers have expressed their views.

Yours faithfully

Robert Kitchener
Secretary, Bourne Civic Society.
15th January 2008