A local construction firm has proposed an innovative plan to save the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd in Batheaston, near Bath, from demolition by converting it into a children’s nursery.
Although Bath and North East Somerset Council previously approved the demolition of this distinctive former church, conservation experts argued for its preservation due to its architectural significance. Designed in the 1960s by Bath architect Martin Fisher, the church is one of the rare examples of brutalist architecture in the area. Its distinctive features include a sharply sloping square roof and a large, uniquely patterned window that reveals vibrant colors when sunlight shines through.
Currently vacant for six years, the church’s future may now be secured thanks to a planning application submitted by Batheaston-based Wraxall Builders. Henry Channer of Wraxall Builders emphasized the building’s value, saying, “It’s worth keeping.”
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The proposal intends to retain and repurpose the church rather than demolish it. Plans include using the lower ground floor for Wraxall Builders’ office space while transforming the upper worship area into a much-needed childcare facility for the village. The submitted application highlights a respectful approach: “The present application does not seek demolition; it seeks to preserve and activate the building with limited interventions.”
To soften the building’s stark brutalist facade, a new timber porch and colonnade are planned at the entrance. Inside, a mezzanine level will be added in front of the colorful window to maximize space for nursery activities while preserving the building’s unique architectural qualities.
The application further states that the nursery responds directly to the community’s needs. Batheaston Parish Council identified childcare provision as a top priority and supports the proposal. The building’s spacious, naturally lit interior and single-level floor plan make it an ideal setting for a nursery with minimal structural changes required.
Additionally, the existing parish hall on the lower ground floor, complete with kitchen, toilets, and separate access, is perfectly suited for office use, maintaining a clear separation from the childcare facility above.
Local support is growing, with several residents submitting comments in favor of the plan. Fergus Feilden noted, “It would be great to see this interesting building used again without being replaced with a new one.” Likewise, Chris Gray appreciated the building’s unique character and highlighted the village’s lack of a dedicated nursery, calling this plan “a genuine solution to a local provision gap.”
The proposed nursery would operate as an additional location for the popular Lookout Day Nursery based in Monkton Farleigh. Charlotte Forrester, who manages the nursery, described the plan as “a really exciting scheme.”
This thoughtful adaptation offers a promising future for the “Marmite” building—an architectural gem beloved by some and contested by others—ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the Batheaston community.