Project Summary

• Conversion and rebuild of derelict listed building
• Application boundary straddling to local authorities
• Land for parking over existing grave yard
• Provision of memorial garden to display relocated grave headstones

Development Description

Prior to development, the Weslyan Chapel had a completely ruined interior and was Grade II Listed. It did have a degree of integrity on all its elevations. The scheme proposed the creation of 15 high quality apartments internal to these facades.  The design of these dwellings was carefully considered to represent the heritage asset they were to exist in.

Planning Process

The initial challenge to this application was managing the site’s split location between Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council. As such, split application occurred. Subsequently full planning permission and Listed Building consent was formally sought. A significant challenge in the planning process was the treatment of the existing graveyard on site which was not in formal operation or upkeep. In order to appropriately resolve this issue, substantial community engagement was undertaken and it was concluded that a memorial garden representing the graveyard be created alongside the development. Due to the complexity of the sensitivity of the development, the application went to planning committee where it was successfully awarded consent.