A FORMER Methodist chapel in the heart of Llanidloes could be converted into a home if plans are given the go–ahead by planning officers.

A planning application has been submitted to transform the vacant Wesleyan Chapel, in Long Bridge Street into a single residential property.

The building and its grounds near the Spar shop has been been left empty since it closed for religious purposes in 2018 however concerns have been raised about the town losing part of its heritage.

Since its closure two years ago, the chapel was available on the open market for sale on the instructions of the trustees of the Methodist Church.

A planning statement, submitted by Alan Southerby Planning Ltd on behalf of applicants Mr and Mrs Barnaby Tuke read: “As a residential scheme utilising an existing under-utilised building in a sustainable, town centre location, the proposal is demonstrably acceptable as a matter of principle, subject to compliance with all detailed aspects of policy, including the loss of the existing chapel, any impact on identified heritage assets, effects on the living conditions of both existing and future occupiers, and all other detailed matters.

“Fundamentally, by bringing an under-utilised building back into productive usage will enhance the viability and vitality of this part of the town centre.”

The statement added: “The design ensures a minimal level of change to the external appearance of the building, which will remain largely unchanged.

“There will be little alteration externally, with on-street and other public car parking available nearby.

“Overall, a sympathetic conversion scheme is proposed, the design, layout, scale and density of which, whilst making the most efficient use of the space available, would reflect and respect the character of existing development in this part of the town, and the wider context of the site.”

Llanidloes Town Council will discuss the proposals at a meeting at the Town Hall on Monday, September 28.

A decision by Powys County Council is expected to be made in November.