Homes plan for another church in the borough

A redundant former Wigan church could soon be demolished to make way for family homes.

Applicant DPTC Ltd wants to bulldoze Orrell Methodist Church which has stood empty on Church Street in the town for several years.

In its place would appear five “attractive” new detached homes for families, under the plans which have recently been submitted to Wigan Council’s planning department.

A design and access statement, prepared by agent Pye Design Architects on behalf of the applicant, reads: “The proposed scheme aims to provide much-needed modern family homes within an existing largely residential area.

“The gated development will provide a safe and attractive environment for families and increase the local economy within the area.

“The church has been redundant for several years and is no longer a viable entity, in-line with the common trend across the UK as many church sites close.”

Each home would have three car parking spaces, which include a garage for one vehicle and a drive for the other two vehicles.

On-street parking along Church Drive would be available for anyone visiting the properties.

The existing vehicle access from Church Drive would be retained for access into the development, with a new gated entrance provided.

The agent added: “This scheme brings the vacant site back into use, whilst also increasing the housing stock within Orrell and the wider Wigan borough.”

The church is one of a number of places of former religious worship in the borough which have been the subject of plans for housing.

In Bryn, St Peter’s Church and vicarage was torn down in November, amid proposals for 21 homes.

Adactus Housing Association Ltd, part of the Jigsaw Homes Group, submitted a planning application to the council for the scheme, which will include 10 family homes and 11 supported living apartments.

Parking, landscaping and access would also be included in the development.

In recent years borough churches have been struggling to keep their doors open, with dwindling congregations and a shortage of clergy often given as reasons for their closures.

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