THE CHURCH council in Dorney are calling upon residents to support them in opposing proposed parking restrictions affecting the church. 

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) for St James the Less Church, Dorney, fear new controls will severely hamper access to the building, decimating congregation numbers and its ability to hold weddings, funerals and baptisms, ultimately forcing the closure of the 800 year old community hub.

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Speaking on behalf of the PCC, Paul Humpleman said: “To continue the successful functioning of the church it is vital that we continue to have unrestricted parking with adequate space for church goers and visitors to continue to access the church for tending graves, memorials, funerals, weddings, baptisms, and normal church services.

Slough Observer:

"If parking is restricted, it will have a catastrophic impact on our church, which will probably result in it closing.

"Dorney church is very much part of the local heritage as a functioning church; serving and supporting the local community and its interests must be protected.

To support St James the Less in its opposition to the proposed restrictions, visit www.dorneychurchparking.com.

All objections must be registered by June 6.

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Throwing his support behind the campaign, the Bishop of Buckingham, The Rt Revd Alan Wilson concluded by saying: “Whilst we recognise the need for safe, efficient parking systems, the proposals put forward are a blunt instrument that will have permanent, catastrophic consequences for the church and it’s community; a community that has rallied together over this last tumultuous year and one that views St James the Less as a vital part of its identity.”