Ed Sheeran’s plan to build a private chapel at his estate in East Anglia has been refused. (Victoria Jones/ PA)
Pop star Ed Sheeran’s plans to build a private chapel at his estate in East Anglia have been refused.
The 27-year-old singer-songwriter, who announced his engagement to long-time girlfriend, Cherry Seaborn, in January, had submitted a planning application for the Saxon-style structure to Suffolk Coastal District Council.
However, permission was refused by planning officers under delegated powers, with a report stating this was due to the “principle of the unsustainable form of development in the countryside”.
Concern had been raised about the welfare of great crested newts (Ben Birchall/PA)
It said the proposed 48ft (14.6m) church tower would be “in conflict with the prevailing landscape character, creating the impression of a second village church”.
Suffolk Wildlife Trust had also voiced concerns about the possible impact on great crested newts.
The proposed flint chapel would have held a congregation of around 24.
The application stated there was a need for the chapel as “it is every person’s right to be able to have a place of retreat for contemplation and prayer, for religious observance, celebration of key life and family milestones, marriages, christenings and so forth”.
Ed Sheeran’s plans for private chapel on his estate refused
