Church conversion to dwelling at Worthington Methodist Church, Worthington

What was proposed

The application sought to convert a Grade II listed Methodist Church into one home with one bedroom, no parking and no outside amenity space.

“Reason the case is called to the Planning Committee: The application is brought to the Planning Committee for determination under the requirement of the constitution as the applicant for this application is related to a serving Member of the Council and objections have been received in relation to the application.”

“MAIN REPORT 1. Proposals and Background This application seeks full planning permission for the change of use of Worthington Methodist Church to a single residential dwelling. Worthington Methodist Church is a Grade II listed building. The dwelling would feature an open plan kitchen, dining and living area at the ground floor with a ground floor bathroom.”

Officer report

Earlier application

An earlier application for the church’s residential use and associated listed building consent was withdrawn, and this proposal was submitted again.

“Further information in respect of the application, including the supporting documentation and relevant plans, can be found on the District Council’s website. Relevant Planning History In March 2023 planning permission was sought for the use of the listed building as a dwelling (23/00413/FUL). The application was accompanied by an associated Listed Building Consent application (23/00414/LBC). Both applications were withdrawn in September 2023.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The planning manager presented the application, and the ward member supported permission because the deteriorating building needed investment and continued use.

What members discussed

Members considered the building’s poor condition, limited maintenance, possible internal bin storage and how drainage and water supply would be secured.

“A discussion was had during which members agreed that the condition of the building was poor and commented that there had been little money spent on the building for maintenance purposes thus far. Converting the building to a dwelling, therefore, would help the building survive.”

“A question was asked regarding quality of the drainage and water supply of the church. The Planning and Development Team Manager replied that an adequate drainage and water supply would be achieved through separate agreements required under the Building Regulations and with Severn Trent Water.”

Minutes

The committee vote

The motion to permit the application was carried, with every recorded vote listed as being in favour.

“The application be permitted in accordance with the officer’s recommendations.”

“Chair’s initials Recorded Vote (Motion) Councillor Dave Bigby For Councillor Morgan Burke For Councillor Rachel Canny For Councillor David Everitt For Councillor John Legrys For Councillor Peter Moult For Councillor Carol Sewell For Councillor Jenny Simmons For Councillor Nigel Smith For Councillor Michael Wyatt For Councillor Richard Blunt For Carried…”

Minutes