As we know, Lewisham has recently extended the Conservation Area. To me this suggests that as a community we value the look and feel of our streets, and don't want them defaced based on special interest or personal preferences. This said, the 'Conservation Area' designation will only have real meaning if it cannot be disregarded or by-passed by making changes and simply applying for planning permission retrospectively.

I hope our local Counsellors will come out and support us on this. It needs to be clear that flouting the rules, especially if you're a church, is not acceptable.