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Ian West/PA Wire
UK News

Ed Sheeran's chapel plans could be thwarted by newts

by Eno Adeogun

The 27-year-old Thinking Out Loud singer recently submitted a planning application to Suffolk Coastal District Council to have a Saxon style chapel constructed.

However, some neighbours are concerned the construction work could negatively impact the area's great crested newt population, which are protected species, The Sun reported.

 

Commenting on the church, one neighbour said in a submission opposing the latest application: "It would appear that the applicant in his desire to satisfy the needs of the spiritual world continues to overlook his obligations to the living world, particularly that of protected species".

Another wrote: "Any damage to such habitats or the killing of such protected creatures can also lead to criminal or civil prosecutions."

Wikimedia Commons

Opposers to the songwriter's plans have said they intended to involve Natural England - the government body in charge of protecting Britain's wildlife.

Documents show the chapel, which will be made with a round tower, would be large enough to hold a congregation of around 24 with some overspill space in the gallery.

The application states there is 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".

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