The proposal to transform Canterbury Cathedral's iconic 16th-century entrance gate into an Airbnb has sparked controversy, with cries of "outrageous" from opponents. Christ Church Gate, crafted circa 1520 as the principal portal to Canterbury Cathedral, stands as one of the nation’s most captured spiritual sites in photography.

Yet church officials have unveiled a bold plan to repurpose the tower section into a unique Airbnb location, boasting "unrivalled accommodation" in Canterbury. Whilst some people see it as a clever move to finance preservation efforts for the historic site, there are concerns that this could detract from the gate's traditional allure.

This Grade I-listed Tudor Gothic masterpiece presents itself as a cornerstone of the cityscape and ushers visitors into the historically rich Canterbury Cathedral, established as far back as 597 AD. A representative from the venerable establishment justified the concept by suggesting that allowing the gatehouse to serve as lodging would contribute to its upkeep.

The spokesperson defended their stance: "The best long-term way to care for our historic buildings, and ensure that they are maintained for future generations, is for them to be used and loved by residents and visitors." Commenting on the state of the building, they added: "The rooms in the Gate remain unrefurbished and, in their current condition, are of limited use."

In addressing potential plans, the spokesperson announced: "As we consider how these rooms could be used, the Cathedral is working closely with historic building specialists, conservation architects and planners to bring them into use." The Cathedral's plans to modernise have sparked controversy, with the aim of sustaining their age-old tradition of hospitality and service both locally and globally.

A spokesperson for the Cathedral stated: "This will help us continue our centuries-old practice of hospitality and welcome as we seek to serve the wider community, both here in Canterbury and across the world." They added: "We are looking to share more information as plans unfold."

However, the proposal has received a polarised reaction. Hilary Brian, chair of the Canterbury Society, called the idea "outrageous" and is pushing for a rethink by the Cathedral authorities. Brian passionately argued: "The gate is such an important piece of Canterbury's history, and it should be preserved."

She expressed disappointment at the potential oversight: "It seems such a shame to see one of the city's biggest landmarks disregarded in this way." Local expert Clive Bowley, a city architect and historian, emphasised the need for careful consideration in any refurbishment efforts.

Bowley cautioned: "The building has always been used for something, and to do anything there will take a huge amount of scrutiny." He reassured: "But lots of work has already taken place, and it's in pretty good hands." Visitors Keith and Wanetta Wilde from Texas had differing views on the matter. Keith Wilde confidently said: "I'd stay here," highlighting the importance of preserving heritage while acknowledging financial realities.

He observed a common issue: "We've seen it all over, old churches and buildings are covered in scaffolding, because they cannot afford to fix them." Wanetta Wilde raised a concern about the future: "You cannot afford to let this place fall into disrepair, and if there's no money coming in, then what happens next?" Despite plans to transform the Christ Church Gate into a boutique hotel, Mrs. Wilde fears it could strip the structure of its appeal.

Mrs. Wilde voiced her concerns: "You have to wonder who would be staying here, realistically, it'll only be tourists." She expressed a personal reluctance: "I don't think I'd stay here, I would be worried about seeing it lose its charm." Highlighting the rarity of such architecture, she added: "I'd struggle to think of many buildings we have in the States that are as historic and beautiful as this." Swiss tourist Peta Roullier found the idea "very strange" yet agreed with most feedback that maintaining the Gate's aesthetic integrity is crucial.

Historically, the Christ Church Gate has served various purposes since 1541, including housing office space for the Canterbury Festival and City Guides, being possessed by Parliament in the mid-17th century, and functioning as a location for the Cathedral sewing group, registry, and storage for diocese documents.

Purcell Architects, responsible for the proposal, highlight the site's design for 'domestic use', evidencing that "It is clear from the layout and fixtures, including the large fireplaces and windows originally with shutters, that they were designed for domestic use." Following a £1 million renovation, the Gate's exterior was recently restored to its original splendour.

The Gate caught public attention in 2022 when the bronze statue of Jesus disappeared during building works, causing a stir until it re-emerged upon completion of the restoration several months later. Within the Cathedral precincts lies existing guest accommodation, featuring a 34-bed hotel specifically constructed to boost the Church of England’s revenue. The famed attraction faces running costs of a staggering £30,000 each day, and with visitor numbers still recovering post-pandemic, a daunting annual tourist income deficit of £1 million looms over the Cathedral.

Should the proposal advance, the envisioned one-bedroom flat would repurpose current office quarters on the Gate's first and second floors, with Canterbury's Dean and Chapter envisioning a "high-quality" residence promising enduring utility for the edifice. This modern apartment is set to include an open-plan kitchen and living area complemented by a biofuel fireplace, a breakfast bar, and a pair of toilets.

Renovations to convert the structure will involve conservation of the historic timber flooring, dismantling plasterboard divisions to enlarge the area, fitting contemporary heating, as well as water and waste systems, and implementing a service duct coupled with an extractor fan. Project leaders are adamant that their design strategy is aimed at "minimise non-reversible work to the historic fabric", illustrating their commitment to preserving the building’s integrity.