A DISUSED church could soon be transformed into a “high class” bar and restaurant where punters can eat, drink and be merry until 2am.
Plans have been submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council to transform the disused St Andrew’s United Reform Church on Newgate Street, Chester into a bar/resturant/live music venue complete with a function room for special occasions.
The plans, which could see the derelict grade II listed church restored to its former glory, come after proposals to turn the building into a nightclub where 600 people could drink and dance until 3am failed to be developed despite being granted full planning permission.
Now pub and restaurant owner Simon Rodenhurst is working in conjunction with the Grosvenor Shopping Centre to transform the hidden gem into a “high class” establishment and “breathe new life” into the city centre.
If approved the plans would see the original features of the church restored, while a new mezzanine would be created for diners to enjoy food and old office blocks lining the courtyard would be demolished to create an external terrace.
Speaking for Mr Rodenhurst – currently the director of Wise Trace Holdings which runs the Plough Inn at the Roe in St Asaph – agent Peter Catherall reassured residents living near the church that it would not be turned into a nightclub or live music venue and the customers would be “high class”.
“My client has been aware of this building for sometime and feels that the time is now right for the building to be renovated,” said Mr Catherall.
“There will not be anyone out on the terrace after midnight so noise shouldn’t be an issue. This is definitely not going to be a club or a chain restaurant and there will not be any loud music coming from the establishment.
“This is very much a high class restaurant and bar which will be run by a respected and responsible operator.
The church closed back in 2005 due to a diminishing congregation combined with rising maintenance costs.
In 2008 planning permission was granted to turn the church into a drinking establishment and restaurant, but the permission expired without work being carried out.
And in 2010 Chester Bar Ltd, which runs Platinum Lounge lap dancing club in Chester, were granted permission to turn the church into a live music venue, which would showcase bands from across the country.
Residents have until October 4 to comment on the licensing application and the council is due to make a decision on the planning application next month.
