The Church of the Good Shepherd is a brutalist church nestled in Batheaston, Somerset. Constructed in 1967, the building has been unoccupied since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and could be replaced by four residential houses if plans by the Diocese of Clifton proceed.
Whilst branded an "eyesore" by some, the proposed destruction of the building has prompted outrage, as its grey exterior conceals an unexpectedly vibrant interior of stained glass.
The church's interior is bathed in colour, thanks to the work of local architect Martin Fisher. Fisher used a post-World War II material known as Kalwall for the windows, which illuminate the church with vibrant tones.
Fisher's brutalist design for the church deviates from traditional ecclesiastical structures by incorporating a "spire" reminiscent of a pilgrim's tent, created with a sloping roof.
Calls for preservation argue for the building’s architectural uniqueness and potential adaptive reuse.
In reaction to community feedback, the Diocese of Clifton offered revised designs featuring “more traditional ‘cottage’ styling’”. However, preservationists have voiced strong opposition to demolition, emphasising the building's iconic status and community significance.
Local resident Emma Adams told Somerset Live: “The Catholic church is part of the history and landscape of Batheaston and surely should remain a community asset. Four imposing townhouses are out of character to the area and four houses may mean eight cars — how can the village cope?”
As discussions continue, the fate of The Church of the Good Shepherd hangs in balance. Its significance perhaps reflects a wider narrative playing out across the UK; the Church is easy to criticise from the outside, yet those who detest it may only need to enter in to realise its true beauty.