A CHURCH tower could soon be getting a facelift.

A planning application has been submitted to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to replace the oak cladding of the bell tower at St Mary’s Church, in Mapledurwell.

Submitted by Careuy-Thomas Architecture Ltd, the proposal is to replace the existing cladding with one to match which will be fixed using stainless screws and pelleted so the fixings will not show. Care needs to be taken as the church is a Grade II* listed building.

In a planning statement submitted to the borough council, the developer said it is an issue of ‘some urgency’.

The statement read: “The timber cladding to the bell tower shows signs of decay as well as damage caused by birds, especially at the corners. It has been suggested that instead of piecemeal repairs to the bell tower, the softwood should be replaced with oak to the same design as existing but allowed to weather naturally.

“Tenders have been sought for re-cladding the bell tower, and it is planned to commence work before the bat hibernation season commences. However, upon consultation, it appears that the change from painted to un-painted timber will require planning consent; hence the current application.”

It is thought that the church dates from the late 12-13th century, with little obvious alterations made to it until the 19th century.

It is believed that the cladding to the bell tower is protected by moulded cover strips, an arrangement that possibly dates from 1853.

Due to the hibernation of bats and nesting of birds, it has advised with work is carried out as soon as possible for minimal disturbance to the wildlife.

A decision is due to be made on the application by November 13.

For more on the proposal, visit planning.basingstoke.gov.uk and search using the planning code 17/03102/FUL.