Church at risk of closing down after planning row escalates over parking site

One of Orkney's most celebrated heritage sites faces an uncertain future after local planners rejected a retrospective application to expand the coach parking area. Tommy Sinclair, who owns the Italian Chapel, constructed the new parking facility before securing the necessary approvals and has now seen his application turned down by the Orkney Islands Council's planning committee. Mr Sinclair said he was "disgusted" by the decision and indicated he was weighing up his options, which could include shutting the attraction entirely. The chapel, fashioned from Nissen huts by Italian prisoners of war during the Second World War, welcomes more than 100,000 visitors annually. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Mr Sinclair said growing concerns about pedestrian safety from reversing vehicles had prompted him to expand the parking facilities. Planning officers recommended refusal on the grounds that the applicant had not adequately examined the full range of alternative parking solutions before proceeding with construction. Jamie Macvie, the council's planning manager, acknowledged that safety issues had emerged as visitor numbers increased and larger coaches began using the site. However, he maintained that Mr Sinclair had not properly assessed all available options through the formal planning process. "Ultimately, there may be no other options, but that case hasn't been made," Mr Macvie stated. Officials also raised concerns about the visual impact on the chapel's historic setting, noting that the line of sight between the chapel and the first Churchill Barrier is central to the visitor experience. Mr Macvie explained that coaches parked in the new area could obstruct this significant view. The planning manager added: "We're not refusing this because it will never be acceptable. But based on what we have, there's not enough to outweigh the impact on the setting." LATEST DEVELOPMENTS Donald Trump names next country he will target as part of 'peace through strength' plan At least 12 US troops injured as Donald Trump and Marco Rubio declare Iran war will end soon Jews are 'abomination to this planet,' says Green activists in texts 'straight out of Nazi Germany' Both Historic Environment Scotland and the Islands Archaeologist lodged objections, citing adverse effects on the chapel's surroundings. Councillor David Dawson proposed refusal, arguing the applicant had "failed to explore alternative options via a detailed management plan" and that the "sense of place" was "diminished by the proposed development". Councillor Duncan Tullock, who seconded the motion, said it "should be a salutary lesson to applicants to consult with the planning authority before taking action". He added: "I sympathise with the fact that the bus parking is required. But there are stages you have to go through, and not take the law into your own hands." The committee voted eight to two against approval. Councillors James Moar and committee chairman Owen Tierney were the only members to support granting permission, with their motion falling at the final vote, per The Express. The planning department remains keen to engage with Mr Sinclair to explore parking solutions and noted that the refusal does not preclude future improvements if handled through proper channels. The Italian Chapel's origins date to 1942, when more than 1,000 Italian soldiers captured in North Africa arrived in Orkney to construct the Churchill Barriers sea defences. Domenico Chiocchetti, a talented artist among the prisoners, designed and painted the chapel, which was fashioned from converted Nissen huts on Lamb Holm. The bonds between the island community and the descendants of former prisoners endure more than 80 years later, largely thanks to this ornate place of worship. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter

Go to News Site