Approval has been given to a controversial plan to demolish historic Oban Baptist Church, making way for a new space for its growing congregation.
Plans for a new church and community building on Albany Street had attracted 12 letters of objection and 48 in support.
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Pastor Stuart Lawson has thanked planners and supporters and told those who were concerned or who objected to the project that they will always be welcome should they ever want to visit.
“On behalf of everyone at Oban Baptist Church, can I thank the Argyll and Bute Planning Committee for today’s meeting and its decision to approve our Albany Street proposal.
“We’re also so grateful to everyone who has supported the proposed project. We’re incredibly excited about entering the next phase.
“To the small number of people who expressed their concerns or opposition to the project, let me reiterate our doors will always be open, the kettle will always be on and we’ll be sure to save some of the best home-baking for you should you ever want to visit.”
Oban Community Council had advised that the consensus view was that the needs of the church congregation should be afforded the higher priority. The congregation had been looking for an alternative space in the town for some time because it needed more room.
Historic Environment Scotland did find the church building, built in Bonawe granite, to be of special architectural or historic interest.
Approval was given at the Planning, Protective Services and Licensing Committee on November 22.
Caption: Oban Baptist Church is planning a new build on the site of the current church building.
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