'Alternative uses' sought for Telford church one year after final service

Anglican leaders are seeking alternative uses for the future of a Telford church that held its final service over 12 months ago.

The 19th-century, Grade II-listed St Peter’s Church in Priorslee, Telford, held its final service on June 29 last year.

Now, the Diocese of Lichfield are seeking “expressions of interest” for “alternative uses” for the church building.

According to the Church of England website, suitable uses may include a place of worship for other Christian bodies, community facilities, arts and crafts, music or drama centre, museum, sports, antiques centre, storage, office or light industrial and housing subject to planning.

A brochure, complied by estate agents Keates, states the building is for sale for £150,000.

A Lichfield diocese spokesperson said the churchyard is not part of any potential sale or alternative use, remains open and under the jurisdiction of the church.

They added: “Once expressions of interest in use of the building have been received, the Church Commissioners will advise the Diocesan Mission and Pastoral Committee (DMPC) on a preferred option.

“If the DMPC wishes to proceed with that option, then there will be a statutory public consultation on future use before any decision can be taken.”

A spokesperson for the East Telford Benefice said they had been made aware of the sale. A note on their website said: “The St Peter’s worshipping community continues to hold services on the second and fourth Sundays of each month at 3pm in the chapel at Holy Trinity Academy, Priorslee.

“Our Places of Welcome group also continues to meet every Thursday from 1pm to 3pm at the Priorslee and St George’s Scout Hall. Everyone is warmly welcome to join us.”