A CONSULTATION has been opened to gather views about the closure of a much-loved church in Dursley. 

There have been concerns about a dwindling number of people attending worship at St Mark's Church - especially given its proximity to St James which is almost 500 metres away. 

A public meeting was previously held in December 2019 about the future of St Mark's with representatives from the Diocese of Gloucester and church members. 

But now commissioners from The Church of England who own the site have opened up a public consultation.  

The Rev Canon Michael Cozens is encouraging residents in the area to share their views in the consultation. 

He said: “Covid has further impacted congregation numbers in St Mark’s and Sunday services are only held there once a month. 

“Most people who come to this service also worship at St James.

“The important thing for the community at St Mark’s is that a decision is reached.

"We are struggling to keep services going and we are concerned about the care of the building.

Dursley councillor Doina Cornell said it would be ‘sad’ to see the church close for the congregation and Dursley community. 

She said: “I can understand that the church might wish to close St Marks and to focus efforts on St James. 

"Although I acknowledge that St Marks have been part of our community for a long time and it will be sad for those who have been part of its congregation. 

“If the building is to be repurposed I hope that the local community will be fully consulted on any new uses.”

The consultation applies only to the church, with Dursley Town Council continuing to manage and maintain the churchyard.

St. Mark's Church was built in 1844 by Dursley philanthropist Henry Vizard. 

Mr Vizard originally decided to build the new chapel because at the time residents had to pay to use the pews at St James Church. 

He wanted St. Mark's to be used by the poor and by the residents of the Dursley Union Workhouse.

Information about the proposals is displayed on church doors and also in the parish office between 8.30am and 12.30pm each day, along with information about how you can share your views.

You can view the consultation online here - bit.ly/3SXOpjS