Plans to convert former Middleton-in-Teesdale chapel into new homes

Planning permission is being sought to turn a former place of worship into two houses.
The front of Middleton-in-Teesdale’s Methodist Chapel was put up for sale last year after heating and repair costs began to soar.
Although housing was anticipated for the chapel, which dates back to 1839, plans have only just been submitted to Durham County Council.
The applicant, Michael Browne, of Sunderland, hopes to convert the vacant chapel into two three-bedroom semi-detached houses as well as providing parking for two vehicles.
Property steward Ian Tallentire said: “It was always hoped that the building would get used.
“It is what we wanted and one of the ways of doing that is to turn it into houses.”
Mr Tallentire added: “I think it is positive news and we hope it will go through and be accepted.
“It will get the building in a good condition again.”
Meanwhile, the rear of the chapel has undergone phase one of a £500,000 transformation which was completed last April.
The former Sunday School hall was revamped and now comprises a modern worship area with technology such as wi-fi and a 65-inch TV. Soundproof doors were also installed to allow two separate services to be held at the same time.
Worship leader and circuit steward Judith Tarn said: “It has been well used and enjoyed. We have got two more phases to do which will give greater scope for doing more things and holding more people.
“There are lots of new things going on. It is much more casual than the traditional church building. The people who use it like it.”
Phase two of the transformation is expected to be completed next year.
Mr Tallentire added: “We are hoping to do phase two in 2018.
“That will add an activities room and a foyer at the front. It is going really well. It is a great building and everyone seems to like it.”
While bringing the chapel back into use, key elements of the building including weathered stonework will be restored.
No new openings will be created and the existing roof and doors will be retained and repaired. However, the windows will be replaced with timber or uPVC opening sash windows.
According to the application, a “substantial” amount of structural alteration works will need to be undertaken. This will include the removal of internal columns and the installation of a new partition wall and new staircases for both properties.
The design and access statement by the agent Building Design Solutions (NE) Ltd states: “As all the work to be undertaken relates to the interior of the building and every effort is being made to keep the main features within the building, we feel that the proposed project should be considered favourable.”
The paved area in front of the chapel will be developed to provide parking spaces However, the grassed area will remain as it belongs to the chapel.