A CHAPEL in Vernham Dean could be transformed into a one-bedroom home if plans are given the go-ahead.

An application has been submitted to Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) asking to convert the Methodist Chapel in Back Lane, Vernham Dean, into a house.

The vacant detached building was formerly used as a chapel which opened in 1860, as part of several Methodist chapels in the area.

Information about the chapel online suggests it could seat 108, with standing room for 12.

The applicant said: “The property is in shell condition and requires a full programme of works. It has electricity and water supplies.”

It added: “The property is situated in the heart of the picturesque area of Vernham Dean in Andover close to local amenities. There is pedestrian access to the left-hand side of the property but it is possible to park at the front of the chapel.”

The applicant said that the external structure of the chapel will remain as it is, with conversions taking place inside to create a one-bedroom home with a large open space containing the living, kitchen and dining area, with stairs leading to a mezzanine level bedroom and lounge.

A previous application submitted to the council asking to convert the building into a one-bedroom home was refused earlier this year, for various reasons including there being a lack of private amenity space and drainage issues.

Vernham Dean Parish Council objected to the previous plans, citing a boundary dispute with properties adjacent to the chapel, and an overdevelopment of the conservation area.

Parish council chairman Richard Winch also claimed that work had already begun, adding: “There is a concern that the work undertaken could impact the integrity of the building’s exterior walls. TBVC should be satisfied that these walls are of a material which is able to support a mezzanine level.”

To view the application in full go to view-applications.testvalley.gov.uk and search for the reference ‘19/02833/FULLN’.