On 18 August, de Mestre Ch. handed down the comprehensive judgment Re St. Michael le Belfrey York [2023] ECC Yor 2 concerning the extensive reordering of the church. This was summarized by the Ecclesiastical Law Association:

“St. Michael le Belfrey York is a Grade I 16th century church standing next to York Minster. It is a Resource Church for York Diocese and the Northern Province. It has a weekly congregation of 500+ and has plans for further growth. The Faculty petition contained plans for a major reordering, estimated to cost £10M (of which £8M was already obtained or pledged). The work would involve major changes to the historic fabric, including (inter alia) removal of the gallery and stairs and replacement with a new gallery with lift access; replacement of pews with chairs; and the installation of a full immersion baptism pool.” Continue reading →