Scientology church to create new base at historic Birmingham mansion
Multi-million pound plans by the Church of Scientology to transform a historic mansion house into a base in the region have been approved by council chiefs.
The controversial US religious sect, which is famously followed by celebrities such as Tom Cruise and John Travolta, submitted a change of use application for Pitmaston House in Moseley.
It was approved by planning chiefs at a Birmingham City Council meeting yesterday.
Welcoming the council decision today, Church of Scientology UK spokesman Graeme Wilson said: "It has taken over two years for the project team to prepare and consult on our plans to restore and use the building and we are pleased we can now move forward.
"The project will cost around £6 million and will involve skilled crafts to sensitively restore marble and oak panelling, as well as structural work to repair damages to bring back the fine aspects of the building.
"We know the building is important to Moseley's history and we are keen to work with local people and conservation specialists to maintain the heritage and natural habitats."
The religion, founded by science fiction author, L Ron Hubbard in 1952, has been frequently labelled a cult. It promotes the belief that people are immortal spiritual beings who have forgotten their true nature.
The religion hit the headlines when it emerged the former wife of Cruise, actress Katie Holmes gave birth to their daughter Suri in silence in accordance with the practices of the religion.
The development will see the grade II listed building refurbished to include a 140-seat chapel, training centre called Birmingham Academy, and about 40 offices. Birmingham City Council received 10 letters objecting to the plans from residents, Moseley Community Development Trust, the Moseley Society, and Councillor Ernie Hendricks.
