PLANS have been submitted to convert a former Methodist chapel near Chelford into a family home.

Snelson Methodist Chapel on Pepper Street is understood to date back to 1825, although some extensions have been built since.

The chapel held its closing service in September 2022, following reports it had been struggling financially for some time.

The building, which has a graveyard at the front and back, was sold at auction a year ago.

Now an application has been submitted to convert it into a three-bedroom house.

A design and access statement submitted by AE Planning Consultants on behalf of applicant Paul Henty, states: “The proposal would result in the ground floor providing the space for the main living, kitchen and utility areas along with a double bedroom.

“The construction of a new first floor would provide the space for two further bedrooms with a gallery/void area above the living room below. “

A new vehicular access would be constructed on to Pepper Street and two parking spaces are proposed.

This would require removal of a short section of the boundary wall.

With regard to plans for the grounds and graveyards, the planning document states the proposal is to retain the grounds around the building as it currently exists.

It adds: “The burial ground remains open for family and friends to visit.

“It is anticipated that many of the older headstones (80+ years) would either be removed or laid down with the agreement of any surviving relatives.

“There are no proposals to disturb the ground surface in the immediate vicinity of the burial plots.

“Essentially the landscape setting of the church would remain as existing.”

The application, number 24/3526M, can be viewed on the planning portal on Cheshire East Council’s website.

The last date for submitting comments is October 30 and the application is due to be determined by a planning officer under delegated authority.