Plans to convert former Sedgefield church into flats

Developer Next Gen Homes has launched a bid to revive St Luke’s Church in Sedgefield into 14 flats.

The former Winterton Hospital site, at St Lukes Crescent, was demolished in 1996 and later housed a gym. 

A pre-application was submitted in January to establish the principle of residential use inside the former church. 

(Image: The Northern Echo)

The Grade II listed building has been empty for several years and was recently purchased by the developer. 

A statement from Next Gen Homes read: “The scheme seeks to provide 14 one and two-bedroom flats within the existing church, respecting the original fabric of the building. There are a number of conservation-type rooflights proposed and the insertion of clear glazing to parts of the existing windows.”

The previous conversion of the church to a gym included the insertion of a mezzanine level, toilets, changing facilities, and new staircases. 

Although the planning application is in the early stages, some objections have already been submitted to Durham County Council in opposition to the proposal. 

Peter and Andrea Bradford said the scale of the proposed development is “wholly inappropriate for the location”.

They added: “We have been concerned about the state of the building for some time and certainly would not oppose any application for residential use on principle. 

“We would rather see the church put to effective use than fall into any further disrepair. However, we do not feel that the proposed scale of this application (14 residential units) is appropriate and would have a significantly detrimental effect on the surrounding area.”

Recommended reading: 

• The 'lifeline' County Durham charity helping communities and changing lives
• Campaigners warn of 'unsafe' new crossing near Durham bridge set to be demolished
• Mother who lost baby son and sister calls for lifetime ban for killer drink drivers

Don't miss out on the latest news and stories. Subscribe to The Northern Echo now for just £6 for 6 months.

The likely increased traffic and parking issues would be a detriment to all residents, they added, as well as posing road safety and environmental issues.

Meanwhile, other objectors said local infrastructure would not cope with the development due to the increased amount of cars using the development. 

Durham County Council is due to consider the planning application later this year.