Housing conversion plans submitted for disused chapel

A former and disused chapel in a local community could be converted into a residential dwelling.

In an application submitted to Wrexham Council by Blueprint Architects, it has been proposed that Salem Chapel in Pentre Broughton is turned into a three bedroom house.

If approved the plans would also include the demolition and re-building of the front facade size of existing structure. Parking space at the frontage would also be provided due to the partial demolition of the building.

The chapel itself is thought to have been closed since 1985 and is described as having deteriorated in that time.

Within the planning documents it it noted that the building has windows missing and that the interior of the structure is in an “extremely poor state of disrepair”.

The document continues onto say: “The chapel is an imposing and well preserved building that contributes to the local history of the former industrial community at Moss and Pentre Broughton and as such is a building of local architectural and historical interest.

“The retention of this structure is key in terms of conservationists who see its loss as detrimental to the area.

“To ensure the character of the building is retained but space is made available for off road parking the front facade will be carefully taken down and re-built reducing the size of the overall structure.

In terms of the proposed design of the new dwelling the ground floor would include an “open plan area” with a kitchen and dining area at the rear of the property. A lounge area, toilet and a snug / study are also featured on the plans.

The first floor would comprise of three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

The design and access statement concludes: “We feel this planning application should be looked favourably upon as we feel there are no justifiable reasons for refusal.

“The exploration for the potential of conversion ensured various persons were consulted prior to the submission of the application, CPAT, conservation officer, ecologist and planning officer have all viewed the proposal favourably.

“The application site has a vast amount of planning history associated with it, the proposal is a clear solution to the issues demonstrated by past applications.

“Retention of the existing building is a positive move to securing the future of this prominent structure.

“Without remedial works in the not too distant future the building will fall into a further state of disrepair.”

The application will be considered for approval at a later date.

Picture: Google Maps