New nursery planned for vacant Lancashire Methodist church - here's what's proposed
The church permanently closed in 2021 after 145 years of service due to falling congregation numbers and an ageing demographic.
A former Methodist church could soon be brought back to life as a children’s nursery.
Plans have been submitted to West Lancashire Borough Council (WLBC) to convert Banks Methodist Church in Chapel Lane into a day nursery and after school club.
The church permanently closed in 2021 after 145 years of service due to falling congregation numbers and an ageing demographic. The neighbouring primary school remains open.
A planning statement on behalf of applicant Alan Howard says: “The proposal seeks to provide a welcoming, safe and high-quality early-years environment while making effective use of the existing building.”
Proposed operating hours are Monday to Friday, from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm. The provision will cater for children from approximately three months to five years. Early years numbers will be determined by the final approved room layout, registration and staffing arrangements, but after-school provision will be for 10 children.
The building provides approximately 470 m² of internal floor area, including the mezzanine, and there will be approximately 60 m² of outdoor play space.
The planning statement adds: “The proposal would return an existing community building to active use and provide a locally accessible childcare service. It would support local families, provide opportunities for employment and training, and contribute to the continued vitality of the village. The use would also help secure a sustainable future for the building.”
A decision will be made in coming weeks by WLBC.
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