Since October 30, the Saint-Jacques de Cosne church has been closed to the public for an indefinite period.
Gilbert Lienhard, first deputy of Cosne-sur-Loire, in charge of the work, issued an order following “risks of rain infiltration”, he explains. “There are risks in two places. Some coating has fallen. »
The municipality therefore made this decision for security reasons because the building regularly serves as a setting for masses and concerts. Not to mention that tourists also very often push the doors. “We are guarantors of the security of citizens,” supports the elected official.
A transfer to the Saint-Agnan church
The municipality will solicit companies to undertake the necessary repair work but as the church is classified as a remarkable site, specific procedures must be respected. A heritage architect must in particular be requested. And as the deputy mayor reminds us, “these are not small jobs. The roofs are old. The problem must be taken as a whole. »
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However, the organ remains accessible. So classes can continue to be given. The door of the 15th century church remains open but only the porch is accessible up to the gate, only a few meters. The entrance is not affected by infiltration.
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During the closure of the Saint-Jacques church, which is expected to last several months, services will be celebrated at the Saint-Agnan church, a few dozen meters away. This place of worship, unlike the Saint-Jacques church, is not accessible to everyone. High steps must be climbed before going inside.
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Mathilde Thomas
