Plans for new Bishop’s house fall foul of neighbours

PLANS for a large modern house to replace the Bishop of Hull’s residence have fallen foul of residents in a leafy suburb near Hull.
Rt Revd Alison WhiteRt Revd Alison White
Rt Revd Alison White

Hessle Town Council has lodged strong objections to the proposals for the detached four bedroomed house in the grounds of Hullen House, home to five bishops since 1968.

Hullen House was one of a number of big houses on Woodfield Lane built in the early 20th century as statement properties for wealthy owners.

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Several neighbours have also objected to the new house - which would serve as the home and also office for the new Bishop of Hull the Rt Revd Alison White - taking up three-quarters of the rear garden and say it is not in keeping with the conservation area.

Hessle’s town mayor and neighbour Coun Margot Sutton said: “In my view it is a dolled up modern box that bears no relation to the site or the house next door.”

However planners are recommending the scheme for approval, following a number of changes, when it goes before East Riding councillors tomorrow.

The Diocese of York said: “Bishops’ houses are not just their homes; they are a focus for the Bishop’s ministry. We want to keep Hessle as the location for the Bishop’s house as it has excellent accessibility both into the city centre and for visitors from the rest of the East Riding. We are therefore exploring the possibility of creating a more up-to-date home and office for Bishop Alison by building a new house in the garden of the current Hullen House.

“If that were to happen, the existing house will be retained as a large family dwelling with garden.”

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