A Newtown church that has been empty for more than a decade has been placed on the market for £350,000.

St David’s Church has been put up for sale by its owners with planning permission for a children’s play centre and café or restaurant. 

Estate agents Morris Marshall and Poole said the prominent town centre building is a "blank canvas for someone with innovative ideas".

The major town landmark closed after 159 years in 2006 because of safety fears.

“The church is prominently located in the centre of Newtown alongside the former A483 trunk road and next to Newtown Railway Station, car parks and other amenities. Its location makes it ideal for a range of uses,” said Andrew Turner, from Morris Marshall and Poole.

“It currently has extant planning permission for a children’s play barn/centre with a café or restaurant and this could be ideal for someone looking to start their own business or wanting to expand into Powys’ largest town.

“The current owners purchased the property in 2010 and have maintained it throughout.”

The church has a ground floor area of 540sq metres and has been put on the market for offers in the region of £350,000.

County Times: The interior of St David's Church in Newtown. Picture by Morris, Marshall and Pool.

Built between 1843 and 1847, it was designed by architect Thomas Penson (1790 – 1859). He also designed Montgomery Prison, Llanfyllin and Caersws workhouses, and the Newtown Flannel Exchange. He was also credited with the design of bridges in Caersws, Abermule, Llanidloes and Longbridge in Newtown.

The exterior was built with buff coloured bricks in an early Gothic style and substantial renovations were carried out on it in 1874.

Standing majestically above surrounding areas, the church is a major landmark in the town. The surrounding churchyard is owned by the local diocese with access for the public at reasonable time.

The interior of the church is architecturally stunning with a large roof area, Inner Hall, former Nave and aisles. A pay and display car park can be accessed at the rear of the church, along with Newtown Railway Station.

The front gates lead into the town centre, including local offices, retail, and recreational areas.

“We’re anticipating interest from people looking to develop some form of enterprise at the church. It offers a blank canvas for someone with innovative ideas. It could easily be used for a range of uses subject to planning approval,” added Mr Turner.

More details can be obtained by visiting www.morrismarshall.co.uk , email newtown@morrismarshall.co.uk or telephone 01686 626160.