PLANS have been submitted to transform a derelict chapel into six three-bedroom houses.

Wooley Terrace Methodist Chapel, in Stanley Crook, near Crook, has stood empty for about two-and-a-half years.

An application has been submitted to Durham County Council to see the building demolished and the new homes built in its place.

The agents John Taylor Architects Ltd believe the best option is create two terraces of three houses on the site.

In the application, the company states: “The construction of the existing building is sub-standard, with the roof and external walls in particular not suitable for conversion, which is why the building was closed.

“It is a single storey building with a double pitched roof. The building has had several sub-standard extensions in previous years.”

“The existing building holds no architectural merit and is of an indeterminate age.

“The proposal is to site six two-storey dwellings within the site and accessed directly from Wooley Terrace.”

The agents continue: “We believe that the proposal will enhance the existing site with little impact and detriment to the surrounding area and environment.

The site is bounded by Arthur Terrace to the north, High Road and open paddock land to the east, with further residential dwellings to the south.

To the west lies the now redundant Stanley United football pitch.

No objections have been submitted from nearby residents or consultees.

A decision on the application will be made by planning officers at Durham County Council in due course.