Friary public meeting

Along with my ward colleague Councillor Jim Barrie I attended a meeting of parishioners at St Francis Friary. I am concerned about the future of this site. Clearly many local people are very upset about the decision which has been taken to close the church. I was very happy to accept the invitation from my constituents to attend this very well-attended meeting. The City Council has no locus in the decision to close the church, however the council does have a locus in the protection of this 'B' listed building and its grounds. I outlined to the meeting the position regarding the listed buildings. I think that there will be a need for more dialogue over this process.