PLANS to modernise and adapt a 13th century church have been labelled ‘vandalism’ by one Highworth resident.

The Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Church has proposed a series of changes to the Grade One listed building.

These include a new kitchen and meeting room, the replacement of the pipe organ with a digital version and removal of the pews to open up more space.

But residents have had a lukewarm reaction to the proposals, with a 575 signature petition submitted together with 25 objections. The church's fate now lies in the results of a hearing ordered by the Chancellor of the Diocese of Bristol

Mark Jeff, who was born in Highworth, said he was fiercely opposed to the plans.

“Even though I am not a practising religious person the church has always provided a quiet place for reflection and private thought. The destruction so far has altered the whole feel of the building, any further progress down this line is tantamount to vandalism,” the 64-year-old said.

“Having spoken to some of the Parochial Church Council they seem hell bent on providing the community with a social centre and meeting hub. These already exist in the town in the Church Rooms within the churchyard, and St Michaels Hall.”

A website, Respect St Michael’s Church has also attracted opinions from the community.

Ruth Stanford backed Mark. She said: “St Michaels should be left as it is. Don't change something that isn't broken. Please leave it alone.”

Valerie Hull added: "I hope with all my heart the church will remain as it is. Too many things relating to our heritage are being modernised beyond recognition."

But some residents believe the changes will only enhance St Michael’s appeal to a new and growing congregation.

Peter McAuley said: “I fully agree with the changes. Replacement of existing pews will be so good. Chairs are a great idea. Levelling the floor to enable access for everyone can only be a good thing.”

Emma Stepp said: “I feel the changes will be for the best for our community and for our future children.”

Geoff Sowden, chairman of the Parochial Church Council, said while St Michael’s was adapting to the needs of the time, its history was not under threat.

“The gospel of Jesus Christ does not change but the means of proclaiming it are always adapting to current culture. We are now in a visual and participation age and gospel presentation would be hugely enhanced through a flexible space in St Michael’s.

“St Michael’s has been adapted over the centuries to meet the current needs of that generation and the current proposals are to allow a flexible space for worship and community use and to provide up to date hospitality facilities for heating, refreshments and toilets. This is a resource for the community and it is a resource for the church.

“The medieval aspects, which have attracted the Grade One status for St Michael’s, will not be altered by the proposals and in fact would be enhanced by opening up the interior and by exposing the original design of the pillars currently hidden by the Victorian alterations.

“The proposals have been under discussion for a number of years and have been altered over that time in response to consultation with the appropriate heritage bodies and the community.”