CHURCH property managers have decided to permanently close an historic place of worship in Coleford due to safety concerns and a costly repair bill sparking anger among local parishioners.

The Church Commissioners claim that St John the Evangelist Church’s repair costs would amount to around £1.8m.

Plans to close the church for regular worship, were put forward by the Parochial Church Council and supported by Gloucester Diocese in 2013, after the Grade II-listed building after it failed electrical safety checks - much to the dismay of many local residents.

Adrian Lander, a spokesperson for the Friends of St John’s, says the pressure group is considering appealing the Church Commissioners’ decision.

He said: “We are extremely disappointed. The congregation has lost St John’s Church and the church has lost its congregation.

“It appears that the Church of England doesn’t care about the people of Coleford.”

The Archdeacon of Gloucester, the Venerable Jackie Searle, said: “Seeking the closure of any church building is a great sadness, but I welcome the Church Commissioners’ decision.

“The Diocese of Gloucester is committed to an ongoing Church of England Church in Coleford, and this decision allows us to explore new options.

“While the decision regarding worship is now made, the future of the building itself is undecided.”