RESIDENTS OPPOSE PROPOSAL FOR DEVELOPMENT NEAR CHURCH

CONTROVERSIAL plans to turn a Dewsbury church into new housing are being determined next week, as families with loved ones laid to rest there are left concerned for the potential impact.

- By ABIGAIL MARLOW

The application relates to the Church of the Holy Innocents in Vicarage Road, Dewsbury. Applicant C Nicol is hoping to convert the church into two four-bedroom homes, along with a residential car park for seven vehicles.

The existing access point will be widened to facilitate vehicle entry and exit, and a new public footpath will be provided, linking the graveyard to Vicarage Road. Soft landscaping will also be introduced between the parking area and the graveyard to create a visual buffer.

Despite 49 objections being received from locals, council officers have recommended that Kirklees Council's District-wide Planning Committee grants approval at their meeting next week subject to conditions.