Plymouth Brethren meeting hall plans approved by Test Valley Borough Council’s southern area planning committee (Test Valley, United Kingdom)

Councillors have approved plans for a new meeting hall for the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church in Romsey. The application, submitted by Shane Morton, proposes converting a house at Woodcot, Yokesford Hill, into a community space. The proposal was endorsed by Test Valley Borough Council’s southern area planning committee on September 5.

Public concerns were raised regarding the church’s early Sunday service times, which begin at 6am. The application received four supporting comments and four objections. Additionally, Romsey Town Council’s planning committee expressed an objection. The Brethren’s planning statement emphasized their national goal of establishing local meeting halls to reduce travel time and promote sustainability.

The Brethren highlighted that celebrating the Lord’s supper at 6am every Sunday is a core aspect of their faith, practiced consistently across all local meeting halls in the UK without complaints from neighbors. They also noted their commitment to respecting the community, including quiet arrivals and departures, careful closure of car doors, and minimal conversation before entering the hall.

The application’s agent, Louise Cutts of Wessex Planning Ltd, stated that eight families in the surrounding area would benefit from the new facility. After a six-year search, the property was identified as the best option. She noted the applicant’s efforts in working with planning officers and expressed hope for approval.

Cllr Alan Dowden supported the application, acknowledging the small community’s positive contributions. The meeting hall would be used twice a week by up to 25 people, offering a more sustainable solution by shortening travel distances.

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