Plans to demolish church for new food and convenience store

A new food and convenience store will replace an empty and disused church building in Cleveleys, if plans get the go ahead.

An application has been submitted to Wyre planners for the demolition of the former Cleveleys United Reformed Church, on the corner of West Drive and Rossall Road, and construction of the new store.

The proposals comprise a full redevelopment of the site, including demolition of the existing buildings and structures, along with new provisions for car parking, landscaping and associated works.

The applicant is listed as Andrew Garnett, of developer Breck Holdings Limited, but no mention is given at this stage of the retail company which would occupy the store.,

A Planning Statement on behalf of the applicant said: “The proposed retail unit consists of a one-storey building with a sales area of 260 sqm, back of house area of 91 sqm, and enclosed yard and plant area.

“It is envisaged that as a local convenience store, the operating hours will be 6am to 11pm Monday to Sunday.

“The materials and appearance of the unit will be appropriate to the suburban context, with dark red brick and dark grey timber effect wall panels. The building will feature a mono-pitch roof with dark grey roof panels.

“A new vehicular access will be constructed from West Drive West serving the development. “

A Heritage Statement says the church was constructed in 1920 as a congregational church and later became Cleveleys United Reformed Church in 1972. The church fell out of active use and was deconsecrated in 2021.

The statement says: “The former church does not have any significant historic, architectural, artistic, or archaeological interest. Whilst the Council has suggested that the building may be regarded as a non-designated heritage asset, it should be considered as being of very limited heritage significance.

“This is reflected in the building’s relatively recent construction, lack of distinctive architectural qualities, absence of archaeological interest, and limited cultural and community value, as evidenced by its vacancy and deconsecration.”

The Planning Statement concludes: “Particular weight should be attached to the benefits of using vacant previously developed land in a highly sustainable location to serve the needs of the local community.

“The proposal is entirely appropriate and supported by national and local policy. There is therefore a compelling case for the granting of permission without delay.