Former church to be converted into community centre and offices in Wakefield

Plans have been approved to convert a former church into a community centre and offices.

Wakefield Council has given the go-ahead to proposals to change the use of the old Elm Chapel building in South Elmsall.

An application submitted to the local authority said the scheme involved using the building for community meetings, coffee mornings, social gatherings and health and wellbeing activities such as yoga sessions

A planning statement said the facility on Little Lane would also be a base for training events, including first aid workshops

The document said: “The community centre element will operate on a not-for-profit basis and will provide a flexible space for a range of community-focused activities and services.

“The facility is intended to provide a welcoming local resource that encourages community engagement and helps address social isolation and loneliness.”

Permission was also granted for internal work to be carried to create office space for five full-time employees at the premises.

The statement added: “The building has been vacant and underutilised for a period of time and would benefit from investment and refurbishment to secure its long-term future.

“The proposal seeks to bring the premises into an active and sustainable use that will support local employment opportunities, provide community-focused services, and ensure the continued occupation and maintenance of the building.”

A planning officer’s report said: “The principle of development is considered to be acceptable, and the loss of the church is deemed to be justified in this instance.

“The proposals are also considered to be appropriate in relation to design and visual amenity, residential amenity and highway safety.”