From church to restaurant - Telford building to be given new lease of life

The disused church in Stirchley Lane in Dawley, Telford, will see both external and internal changes as developers demolish and replace the front porch and add space for 17 parking spaces.

Bobby Hopley of Newtown, Dawley, who submitted the plans, and agent AP Architecture now have three years to do the work.

In the plans submitted to Telford & Wrekin Council, applicants said the main church would welcome diners.

It said: "These works involve the refurbishment of the main church building which will become the main dining area and kitchen. The existing lean to wings are to be replaced with new entrance lobby of a contemporary design and toilet block.

"We are not making many changes to the building itself with only an additional doorway from the reception to the downstairs eating area.

"As mentioned we have decided to remove the porch back to original frontage and replace with a contemporary fire exit door from the dining area.

"We intend to keep all windows as are, just improve the quality where possible and replace sympathetically where needed."

The plans also said interior building design will be in tune with the church building, utilising existing features and bringing back to life many of the church nuances.

Applicants said: "The scheme is designed to provide a use for a once beautiful building without overpowering its features with the required revisions, and to maintain the sensitive relationship with the surrounding landscape.

"The scheme will enhance the restaurant experience for local residents and tourists alike, and will be a positive addition to area."

Ian Lowe, planning officer for the council, said: "It is established that there is no longer a community use for the church building and its conversion into a restaurant will ensure the retention of this locally listed building."