A planning application has been submitted for the demolition of St. Martin’s Chapel in Broadway, Fulwood.
The redevelopment would see the chapel, parish hall, Guides hut and bowling green all demolished.
In their place would be a single storey new build chapel and parish hall facility, plus an affordable housing development featuring nine two bedroom flats and five three bedroom houses.
The existing buildings have been vacant awaiting demolition since 30 September. The Design and Access Statement says the decision to close was taken after it became clear that the buildings couldn’t meet current electrical, gas and fire regulations without significant investment.
Local residents who used the chapel and parish hall have been left devastated by the plans, saying they have been left out of the decision making process.
One resident said: “One of the frustrations of the community – who feel the current facilities are good and don’t want to loose the large hall, bowling green and guide hut – is that there doesn’t seem to have been any real attempt to save what is there.”
After a meeting about the proposals was held last November, an action group was formed to try to fight the redevelopment.
Read more: Action group launch to challenge Fulwood church plans
Although the proposed new build chapel and parish hall facility is 461m2 smaller than the previous parish hall, the Design and Access Statement says that all groups who used the site can be accommodated within the new building.
This is with the exception of the Guides, who have relocated to a Guides Hut in Broughton, the Social Club, which has ceased operation, and the Bowling Club, whose members have relocated to other clubs.
While The Hall Players are currently performing at The Preston Playhouse, the application says they are welcome to use the new hall should they wish.
Residents now have the chance to comment on the application, which can be viewed on the Preston City Council website.
Read more: Redevelopment news from Blog Preston
What do you think about the redevelopment? Let us know in the comments.