A BID has been launched to save Coventry’s iconic ‘Christmas star’ and the much-loved original section of Hearsall Baptist Church from future demolition ahead of the venue’s imminent closure.
Spiralling costs meant trustees voted to put the venue up for sale and relocate, and the church and building will close on March 31.
Campaigners are now calling on Coventry City Council to locally list the church’s original section including the spire and the Hearsall Christmas star.
The ultimate aim of passionate Coventrians would be to find a way to restore the building as a place of community and service in some form.
A petition calling for the listing has gained over 900 signatures so far and it was submitted by Coun Jayne Innes at Tuesday’s full council meeting.
Some of the groups using the venue have already moved to Holyhead Road URC church as part of a new partnership, while others will look elsewhere for a new home.
The iconic star has shone over Chapelfields for over 70 years and its lighting signifies Christmas is around the corner to many Coventrians.
Pat Thomas, from the Friends of Hearsall Community Rooms, told the Observer: “All of those who have been and are connected with Hearsall in any way are very sad this is happening.
“In the future, the loss of community space will have a significant impact on the local community.
“Whilst appreciating the difficult decisions the trustees have had to make, people are seeking ways to keep this magnificent building.
“The star has shone over Chapelfields since the 1950s and continued to shine during Covid as a sign of hope, which was greatly appreciated by local residents.”
Coun Innes added the Hearsall star was a vital piece of Coventry’s culture.
A Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of the local residents’ petition and concerns around the sale of this building.
“At this stage we have not received a formal application to locally list the address.
“We would encourage all residents interested in listing a building to visit our website to check the criteria.
“This would include meeting the government’s definition for being capable of being a heritage asset, as well as other elements including artistic interest, community interest and evidence relating to the significance of the building.”
Visit edemocracy.coventry.gov.uk/mgEPetitionListDisplay.aspx? to sign the petition.
