Residents unhappy at plans for former chapel
RESIDENTS have expressed concern at plans to turn a former Huddersfield church into 12 apartments.
Parkwood Methodist Church in Longwood shut last year due to dwindling congregation numbers and the unsustainable costs of running such a large building.
After much discussion it was decided to sell the building and find a use which will maximise its value and ensure its long-term longevity as a listed building of architectural significance.
The high cost of conversion means the expense should be spread over as many individual units as possible.
The application submitted to Kirklees Council is for change of use and listed building consent to convert the building into 12 apartments spread over three floors, with associated parking in the grounds.
The chapel was built in 1868-69 by Wesleyan Reformers and was enlarged in 1897.
It was granted Grade IIlisted building status in 1985.
The memorial area containing children’s graves will be refurbished and a bin store will be constructed.
But not everyone is happy with the plans.
One resident wrote: “I am also concerned that the development
I am also concerned that the development involves creating a car park over a graveyard
involves creating a car park over a graveyard containing approximately 600 bodies which I feel is disrespectful and inappropriate.”
While another resident wrote: “A matter of great concern is the proposed use of the present grassed front graveyard as a car park.”
Kirklees planners hope to make a decision by mid-May.