A former Archbishop of Canterbury has backed the updated proposal to build a £8million annexe at Ripon Cathedral. 

Earlier this year, the cathedral unveiled plans to build a two-storey standalone annexe on Minster Gardens with an 80-seat refectory, gift shop, song school, additional storage space and new accessible toilets. 

But more than 2,000 people signed a petition opposing the development because of the loss of trees. 

Dame Judi Dench, an ambassador and patron for the Woodland Trust, was among those who called for 11 long-standing trees to be saved.

The cathedral then 'paused the planning application for further consultation'.

Now the former Archbishop Rt Revd & Rt Hon Lord Rowan Williams - alongside a host of community leaders, business figures, and politicians - has given his backing to amended plans for the cathedral.

The new proposal, if approved, would safeguard a veteran tree which would previously have been lost.

An aerial shot of Ripon Cathedral An aerial shot of Ripon Cathedral (Image: Ripon Cathedral) In total, it would result in the loss of 12 trees but include the planting of 23 new trees around the Cathedral.

The letter reads: “We are writing to offer our strong support for the proposed Ripon Cathedral Annex project. In response to concerns about the original proposals, the new plans ensure the badly needed facilities will be contained within a sympathetic environment. This initiative represents an essential step forward for Ripon Cathedral and the surrounding community, promising substantial economic, cultural, and environmental benefits.

“As a major cultural and religious hub, Ripon Cathedral attracts over 100,000 visitors annually. It supports a rich programme of concerts, events, and educational initiatives. But, the current facilities fall far short of meeting visitor and cathedral needs, with inadequate amenities and space for activities severely limited. The annex project addresses these issues head-on. These vital changes will ensure that the Cathedral will continue to flourish as a vibrant centre for worship, education, and tourism – and will eliminate the need for entrance fees that would deter potential visitors.

“The economic impact of this project is undeniable. With an estimated 35 per cent increase in visitors, the annex could have a significant effect on Ripon’s local economy. By encouraging longer visitor stays this project would boost local businesses, create new job opportunities and raise Ripon’s profile as a must-visit destination."

The letter was also signed by Baroness Harris of Richmond, Lord Richard Newby; The Countess Charlotte Peel DL; David Kerfoot CBE DL; Richard Compton DL (Newby Hall); Simon Theakston DL; Professor Joyce Hill; Tom Ramsden DL; Mick Stanley (former Ripon Mayor), Judith Donovan CBE; Dr. Christopher Bennett; David Ingham; Sarah Day (Partner DLA Piper UK LLP); Anne-Marie Tarter; David Elsy; Dr. Angus Livingston; Dr. Rosemary Livingston; Simon Hewitt; Malcolm Hanson; Rev Cannon Paul Maybury; Martin Pearman (former head teacher Ripon Grammar School); Councillor Andrew Murday, Liberal Democrat candidate Skipton & Ripon Constituency 2024; Malcolm Birks, Labour candidate Skipton & Ripon Constituency 2024; and Guy Phoenix, Business Spokesman for the Heritage Party.