HOUSE PLANS FOR FORMER METHODIST CHURCH IN ROOKLEY

A former Isle of Wight Methodist church could become a house, years after the congregation left. Rookley Methodist Church, on Niton Road, has been empty since 2019 but could be given a new lease of life as a 2-bed house. The chapel, built in 1859, has been on the market since the end of 2022 but little interest has been shown in taking on the building as a community facility. Planning documents submitted to the Isle of Wight Council say if the building was to be used for the community it would need significant upgrading works and modernisation to address the condition of the chapel roof. Island company, Carter Mews, has put forward the plans which could see a mezzanine floor installed to create space for 2 bedrooms and bathrooms. The former church floor area could be turned into an open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen area with separate study and toilet. A 1960s extension could be demolished at the rear of the church to create an outdoor area for the property. Plans say there would be minimal external changes with only proposed heritage roof lights to be installed and a window added at the rear of the property. You can view the plans, 23/02142/FUL, on the Isle of Wight Council’s planning register. Comments can be submitted until 26th January.