Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has given planning permission for the Diocese to build a new church next to St Paulinus School to serve the people of Guisborough. The new church and community centre will replace the current building in Park Lane, which was opened in 1927. It is expected that work will commence during the summer with the aim to have the new Church open in 2009.

The original planning application for a slightly larger church was turned down on appeal, but the Parish and Diocesan teams have worked hard together to produce a building which meets the Parish’s needs and is acceptable to the Council.

Parish Priest, Canon Michael Bayldon, said he was very pleased at the news, and he thanked his parishioners for their commitment and determination, and the very positive way they had responded when the original application had not been successful.

Bishop Terry said he was delighted to hear the news, and looked forward to opening the new Church in 2009.