Perspective view of new stairwell

The Church, built in 1857, is located on the corner of Fishergate and Charnley Street.

The new plan states that the Grade II listed building will be transformed into a restaurant and public house, and there will be changes to the use of the pavement in order to provide an outdoor seating area.

Read more: How new restaurant in Fishergate Baptist Church may look

Fishergate Baptist Church. Photo by George Derek Thompson

The proposed work that will take place on the church includes repairing the decayed basement, removal of the modern Lobby Structure with a staircase in the floor linking to the basement, new beams put in to improve structure and making an opening in the rear wall to gain access to an outdoor seating area.

The proposal states that the work planned for the site will not have an effect on the historic aesthetic of the church.

Ground Floor with seating plan and Bar. Booth seating is freestanding

Paul Rowley, chief executive and owner of Leyland-based Rowland Homes, submitted the updated application to Preston City Council’s planning department on 12 June.

He said: “The church is a major landmark of style and character situated in Preston City Centre’s retail core.

“Fishergate is the main thoroughfare for shoppers and commuters.

“I think it could suit such a wide variety of operators.”

A report from planning officers at Preston Council said the church has now been closed for more than five years.

Do you know Fishergate Baptist Church? What do you think of the proposed plans? Let us know in the comments below