Demolition of Methodist Church Proposed to Make Way For Housing

A church in Wrexham is set to be demolished to make way for new housing.

In an outline application due to be debated by councillors next Monday it has been proposed that the Methodist Church on Rhosnesni Lane is demolished to make way for the construction of two houses.

The application, which has been recommended for approval, would see a pair of semi-detached properties built fronting Rhosnesni Lane.

Concerns about the proposals have been raised by Acton Community Council, who say that the ‘highway safety of the two proposed driveways are in close proximity to the main entrance of Rhosnesni High School, albeit on a one way street after the main entrance’.

A further two letters of objection were submitted on several grounds, including the development being too close to residential property, increased danger with the site close to a roundabout and Rhosnesni High School and a notorious accident black spot; cracks already appearing in a nearby house with the speed of HGVs on the road and that it is wrong to build on consecrated ground for reasons other than religion.

One letter of support was also received in relation to the proposals.

Commenting on the concerns from residents and the Community Council, the Head of Environment and Planning notes in the report: “Separation distances to existing properties on the northern side of Rhosnesni Lane exceed the standards and will ensure no loss of privacy.

“The revised layout also addresses issues previously raised and will ensure privacy and light to habitable rooms is protected.”

The report continues: “I am satisfied that an application for two dwellings (pair of semis) is acceptable in principle and can be provided without comprising residential amenity or highway safety.

“Whilst I am mindful of the comment made by a resident regarding consecrated grounds, this is not a material planning consideration and therefore would not warrant refusal of the application.”

The application will go before Wrexham’s Planning Committee at 4pm on Monday 6 February. For those who cannot attend the meeting it will also be webcast live on the Wrexham Council website.

*Picture – Googles Maps