I was disappointed to read the latest Bulletin article about the St James's Church extension application. It presented only the viewpoint of a few residents who are opposed to the plans, not that of the many residents who attend the church and the benefits that the proposed extension would bring to the parish and the community. The planned extension would bring the church itself into compliance with numerous building codes, provide a social space for the parish after services and a safe place to hold Sunday school during services. Most of the outnon-parish users of the current hall could use the new, improved hall on the church site instead. The parish does not really need a space of that size and there are numerous other drafty old church halls in Twickenham that can be hired if this one is rendered unavailable. It is my understanding that several of the most vocal objectors are parish members who are using the planning objection procedure because they are opposed to the parish selling off one of its only two solid assets. The planning department is no place for that dispute.

If you would like to present both sides of this issue, I am sure Father Ulick would be happy to speak to you or write something for the newsletter.