From praising God to downward dog – a former Isle of Wight church could be given a new, relaxing lease of life. St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, on Rectory Road, Niton, has been empty for nearly 15 years after it stopped being used for mass or prayer meetings. Now, after being on the market since September 2015, the building could be returned to community use, primarily as a yoga studio but also available to rent for events. The plans have been put forward by local instructor, Emma McGillivray, of Ems Yoga. Planning documents say the change would bring the 18th-century building back into use, improve its neglected appearance, and put an end to any deterioration risks. No changes are proposed to the building, apart from a redecoration. Permission had previously been given to convert the chapel into a house but was never carried out. You can view the plans, 24/00442/FUL, on the Isle of Wight Council’s planning register. Comments can be submitted until 26th April.
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Fabulous news. So good that this unused chapel is finally being brought back to life, offering yoga to the local community. Namaste!
There already 3 halls ….1 inNiton and 2 in Whitwell being used for Yoga. It would better serv the area as a general community hall open for sll groups within the area. Crafts/ Drama/Plant Sales/ Coffee mornings/ Toddler groups/ TBle top sales. / Youth groups. The list is endless.
Niton has a village hall. Whitwell has a village hall. Why would they need more village halls and who do you think would pay for it? You could suggest massive rises in the Parish Council precepts to pay for it but you wouldn’t have much support.
Well then Lesley, when you buy your disused building you should offer it up for all of those activities and community groups. I think if someone buys be the Ex Church in Niton and does with it what they will, with all of the legal and proper permissions in place then it’s their business. Good luck to them with their endeavours.