Old Dukinfield Baptist Church could be converted into housing and commercial unit

An old Baptist church in Dukinfield could be transformed into houses and a commercial unit, if permission is granted.

The Dukinfield Baptist Church is currently unused following a decision to close in 2022 due to an ageing and dwindling congregation. Plans submitted by Mohameed Suleman Niaz include three new homes, a commercial unit, detached garage block and two advertising boards.

The Oxford Road church building, originally erected in 1920, would be converted into a commercial unit with one four-bed and one two-bed home attached to it.

A detached two-storey home with two bedrooms would sit next to the old church building with a garage and parking facilities next to it.

Planning documents state that the proposed free-standing digital display boards would both be placed outside the commercial unit for advertising use. 

No occupier of the commercial unit has been mentioned in the planning application. There are a proposed seven parking spots in total, three residential and four for the commercial unit.

The planning statement read: “This application will ensure the retention and longevity of the existing landmark building and provide improved street scene landscaping which otherwise couldn’t be guaranteed. It will also provide high quality accommodation both commercial and residential and should fit harmoniously in the area.”

The application will go before the planning officers at Tameside Council, and possibly the planning panel before a decision is made.