An application has been put forward to refurbish the roof of St Michael's Church Hall in Barnes which is covered in asbestos.

BHM Architects on behalf of Parocial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels, Barnes has submitted the plans which include a new roof covering, refurbishment to the walls, windows and doors of the building.

Currently, St Michael's Church Hall is used as a day nursery during term time and by the community for ballet schools, parties and holiday clubs.

St Michael's Church Hall in Elm Bank Gardens, Barnes (credit: Planning application).

In the planning documents, BHM Architects write that the church's "roof is currently covered with concrete asbestos sheets, possibly replacing original corrugated iron sheeting" and that "the building is of no particular architectural merit."

BHM Architects explain that the due to the building dating to 1922 and because of it being "economically built", the current state is "hardly surprising".

The proposed roof will be made out aluminium seam panels on a plywood deck with insulation and a plasterboard internal lining.

BHM Architects say this option is "the best roof covering from both an aesthetic and structural point of view."

An artist impression of the west elevation of the church hall with the new aluminium roof (credit: Planning application).

The applicants estimate that the works will begin in July 2025 and finish in November 2025.

Asbestos is a group of natural minerals that are heat and corrosion resistant that can be harmful if inhaled or ingested.

The UK Government banned all forms of asbestos in 1999 but it can still be found in buildings.

To read the full application click here.

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