Plans to repaint temple supported by locals

Residents have backed plans by Buddhists in Malvern to repaint their temple.

The recently renamed Bright Earth Buddhist Temple in the town’s Worcester Road was repainted from red to turquoise last year to reflect a change in affiliation – but was done without planning permission.

The temple has had to apply to Malvern Hills District Council for retrospective permission which could mean the temple has to return to its original colour if the plans are not approved.

More than 70 messages have been submitted to the council supporting the work and have called for the temple to be allowed to keep its new brighter colour scheme.

One supporter in Malvern said: “I drive past this place daily and think it really brightens the area up, with all the banks and shops closing nearby and lying derelict this really brightens the place up.

“I cannot see a problem with this and believe this should be approved as this place offers so much for the community.”

Another supportive comment said: “I approve of the new turquoise colours. They are a positive addition to the Malvern landscape. The colour reminds me of the bright haze across the Severn plains that follows a clear, bright day.”

The 200-year-old and grade II listed former guest house became a Buddhist temple in 2015.

Last year, the religious affiliation of the temple changed from the Amida Shu religious community to become an independent temple changing its name from Amida Mandala Buddhist Temple to Bright Earth Buddhist Temple.

Further messages of support called the new colour was “welcoming” and should remain.

“The new paint looks fresh and welcoming and is very much in keeping with Malvern’s individualistic nature,” the comment said. “The building is well cared for and permission should be granted.”

Another resident in Malvern who supported the change said: “The new paint finish on the building is lovely and fresh and sits well within the Malvern Hills.

“It looks welcoming and does not detract from the adjacent buildings or area. The turquoise is not offensive or intrusive. The old paint looked tired and dirty with the red standing out far too much.”