BCP Council (Bournemouth area): Chris Miell is thrilled to announce that he has secured planning permission for the conversion of a former chapel to 2 x 2 bed flats, including the construction of a mezzanine floor, external alterations and bin and cycle stores at Moordown in Bournemouth.
Following the closure of the chapel in June 2022 by the local congregation, the site was acquired by a local developer for conversion into residential use. As part of the planning process, we put forward a robust planning justification to demonstrate that the loss of the place of worship would comply with local polices related to the provision of community facilities.
We demonstrated that building was in a poor state of repair and no longer fit for purpose due to limited kitchen and toilet facilities. For these reasons, the restoration and upgrade works were unaffordable to the church, which meant the building was sold.
We undertook an assessment of availability of other places of worship within the local area and demonstrated that there was a suitable number of Christian services at other churches within the local area to meet the needs of the former congregation. This was justified by the former pastor who provided a written statement in support of the proposed change of use.
The approved scheme will provide a high-quality residential development, which will make efficient use of the existing building, whilst retaining period features, including the vaulted ceiling and stain glass window on the front elevation. Both units exceed the national space standards and benefit from private outdoor garden areas. To improve the streetscene, additional landscaping will be provided to the front of the site facing Nursery Road.
The application was positively received by the Planning Officer, who concluded with her officer report that “the proposal would result in a more intensive use of the site, but having regard to the size of the site and prevailing pattern of development it is considered that the proposed development would assimilate the into the area in an acceptable manner. The development would therefore make a more efficient use of this site noting the current vacant use of the building and contribute towards local housing need.”
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