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Board tables Church of the Ascension demolition request at 1408 South Hall pending structural engineer report
Summary
The Architecture Review Board postponed action on the Church of the Ascension’s request to demolish a structurally compromised building at 1408 South Hall Street and asked the applicant to provide a structural engineer’s report before the next meeting.
The Montgomery City Architecture Review Board on Oct. 11 tabled a request from the Church of the Ascension to demolish a structure at 1408 South Hall Street and asked the church to submit a structural engineer’s report verifying that the building is not salvageable.
Candace Fraser (representing the church) told the board the building had significant structural damage, that a contractor’s assessment found restoration cost‑prohibitive and that the congregation plans a landscaped “woodland walk” and labyrinth on the site. Richard Norris, also with the church, described the proposed woodland walk, noting the path would use permeable material, preserve existing trees and include benches and plantings.
Board members acknowledged community benefits of a cleaned and stabilized lot but repeatedly emphasized the permanent loss if a historic structure is demolished. Several members — including Hillary Morgan and others — requested a formal structural‑engineering report demonstrating that the building cannot be repaired before the board consents to demolition. Laura Callaway of the Garden District Preservation Association said the association had not opposed the plan after weighing safety and the proposed landscape improvements, but noted concerns about demolition of historic fabric.
Public commenters offered mixed views: some neighbors supported demolition on safety grounds and welcomed a landscaped use; others urged careful documentation or salvage of architectural elements. The board voted to table the application to the next meeting and asked the church to provide a structural‑engineer evaluation in the interim. The church said contractors had noted roof and rafter damage and possible electrical code issues, and agreed to pursue a formal engineer report.
The board’s action preserves the status quo while the church secures professional structural analysis; the board said it will revisit the demolition request after receiving the engineering documentation.
