Huge concerns as Sutton Coldfield church car park plans ‘will require relocation of historic gravestones’

St Michael’s Church in Boldmere is seeking permission to create a new car park and vehicular access, which would reduce pressure on surrounding streets and improve accessibility.

But the proposals have been met by 32 objections, with some raising concerns over the impact on ‘historic graves’.

Birmingham City Council acknowledges in a report that the plans would require “relocating a number of gravestones within the wider graveyard and churchyard”.

“The car park is to be constructed using a proprietary no-dig grid system to avoid disturbing graves,” a council officer wrote.

“Several objections have been received, raising concerns that graves and gravestones in the proposed area would be affected or relocated.”

They continued that efforts were made to trace descendants of the

graves and gravestones that would be affected but were unsuccessful.

“However, they have confirmed that the chosen location for the car park and vehicular access will have minimal impact on graves and gravestones,” they said.

The report went on to say that the Archdeacon of Aston, on behalf of the

Church of England, has provided written support, confirming that the proposal is in full compliance with Church of England procedures.

These include strict guidelines and codes of practice to respect graves and memorials.

“In light of the site’s lack of heritage and archaeological designation and considering the operational needs and long-term viability of the church, the impact on graves and gravestones is considered acceptable,” it concluded.

“Especially given these will be appropriately relocated within the same church ground within a nearby setting.”

On why the plans have been recommended for approval, the report said: “The proposed development seeks to deliver essential improvements to St Michael’s Church.

[These include] the creation of a car park and associated vehicular access,

installation of solar panels and air source heat pumps, and accessibility

enhancements.

“While the scheme will […] require the sensitive relocation of gravestones,

the site is not a designated heritage asset, lies outside a conservation area, and has no archaeological interest.”

It added that the proposals would improve parking pressures in nearby roads; enhance the ‘long-term viability’ of the church and bring biodiversity enhancements

The plans, which were recommended for approval subject to conditions, will be considered at a planning committee meeting next Thursday, December 18.