The petitioners sought a faculty to introduce a raised dais at the east end of the nave, with disabled access to the raised area. The plan required the removal of some pews. A faculty had been granted several years earlier to permit the introduction of a nave altar, which would be re-sited on the proposed dais. Applying the Bishopsgate questions the chancellor found that the petitioners had discharged the burden of proof as to the necessity of a new dais. Following a ‘fact gathering’ visit to the church, he found that the size of the proposed dais was excessive and would have a detrimental effect on the character of the building. The petition was refused. [WA]

An appeal is pending in this matter.