Hyndburn's historic Church Kirk approved to become offices

The redevelopment of St James Church, known as the Church Kirk, in Church has been approved with six conditions by Hyndburn Council.

Applicant Decron Ltd from Harrogate can now start works to repurpose the redundant building in St James’ Road.

The Grade II-listed church, with 1.65 acres of grounds and graveyards, was constructed in three periods between 1284 and 1896 on a site used for Christian worship since 642 AD.

Now it will be converted from a place of worship to an office building with internal works to create individual office rooms, reinstate washroom facilities, and an electrical fit-out.

 A planning officer’s report recommending approval says: “The church sits in a prominent position above and to the north of St James' Road.

"The churchyard is bound by the towpath of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to the north.

“The church closed as a place of worship in 2015.

“There would be no external works.

“There has been one representation of objection regarding the impact on parking provision and associated impacts, including anti-social parking and congestion; and public access to the churchyard and whether a community use could be found for the church.

“There has been one representation of support from the Church Commissioners for England (vendors of the application building).

“They suggest that further delay could put the proposed scheme and disposal of the building at risk.

“It appears that the community and cultural needs of the local area for an Anglican church are being met by nearby St Andrew’s Church.

“The church is in a moderate state of repair, with significant fabric issues resulting in damp, and needs restoration

“It is understood that Church Kirk Regeneration Trust was established to retain the building for local community use, but this did not progress as they were unable to afford the repair and maintenance costs of the building.

“The agent has confirmed public access to the churchyard would remain.

“The proposed office use would unlikely significantly undermine the role of Accrington town centre as the principal centre and focus for office development.

“The loss of the existing community and cultural facility is regrettable but acceptable.

“The heritage consultees generally consider that the proposed office is acceptable, and it would secure a sustainable future for the building.

“In conclusion, the proposed development would enhance the character and appearance of the area, including the Church Canalside Conservation Area.

“It would preserve and arguably enhance the setting and significance of Grade II-listed ‘Church of St James’ and preserve other heritage assets.”