BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – A judge has rejected an appeal to prevent Burlington’s Cathedral of Immaculate Conception from being demolished.
Historians, preservationists, and architects have spoken out about the planned demolition permit approved by the Burlington Development Review Board. They believe the building should be repurposed to preserve its historical value.
But Vermont Superior Court Judge Thomas Durkin on Tuesday signed off on the decision by the DRB, saying that it adhered to the wishes of the former church to deconsecrate the property through demolition. “The court is without authority to question this ecclesiastical process or decision,” Judge Durkin said.
John Franco, the attorney for the parish, says the decision is a win, as they hope to demolish the building and sell the land to a developer.
Preservation Burlington will now have a chance to appeal the decision to the Vermont Supreme Court.
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