What Future for the Methodist Church?

The Methodist Church (previously a school) situated on the corner of Church Square has lain empty and forlorn since the congregation moved out in 2021. During the past year it has been on the market, but the current position is unclear. There is a planning argument that the building should be retained for community use, but the demand for such facilities is far from clear and maybe given the need for more housing some form of conversion to residential use might be desirable. Certainly elsewhere in the country there are many examples of churches being repurposed into apartments. If nothing is done then the building that already suffers from damp is certain to deteriorate further which is sad, given its prominent setting in the historic Church Square. The Conservation Society would appreciate your comments on the future for this building which has been the cause on some discussion on our committee.