A heritage-listed place of worship in a moorland village could be turned into a gym, yoga studio and physiotherapy clinic. The fitness complex would follow the proposed conversion of the Victorian former Edgworth Methodist Church in Bolton Road, Turton.
Mrs S Roberts has applied to Blackburn with Darwen Council to turn the Grade II-listed building into a new personal training gym, yoga studio and physiotherapy treatment facility. Supporting statements submitted with her application say: “The church dates from 1862 and its construction was funded by local philanthropist Mr James Barlow.
“Internally, it is clear that the building has seen considerable change which appears to be reasonably modern late 20th century. The existing premises are currently vacant but are generally in sound condition.”
The report says the last known main use for the building was a Methodist Church, but ancillary uses such as playgroups and local meetings have continued up until the recent full closure and the subsequent open market sale.
It continued: “As there is no longer a local congregation to sustain religious worship, alternative uses need to be considered to secure the long-term future of an important heritage building in a historic village setting. Investment is also required to ensure the building does not fall into a state of disrepair.
“With regard to the change of use proposed to a personal training gym, the large residential catchment of Edgworth, and other surrounding residential areas, will provide a sustainable client base. The applicant has already successfully been delivering personal training services from the nearby Barlow Institute in Edgworth village.
“The main facility will be the personal training gym. This use will be primarily by for individuals and small groups (maximum 15 people) and not a general gym members can use at any time of the day without prior appointment.
“The yoga studio will accommodate a maximum of 25 people. It is anticipated that a large number of attendees at yoga sessions will be from the local area and will travel to the building on foot.
“The physiotherapy use is ancillary to the main personal training gym and is a minor element. It is anticipated opening hours will be: Monday to Friday: 6am to 8pm; Saturday and Sunday: 8am to 4pm; and Bank Holidays closed.
“The former vestry will be used as the main entrance/reception area and include a refreshment counter which will sell drinks and snacks. The main ground floor area, originally the main worship area, will be used as the personal training space.
“The Nave will be screened off to create an office. The first floor will be amended slightly to create one open plan space used to deliver yoga classes and sessions.”
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