An empty church in Saltburn which is grade two listed is to be converted into a restaurant and bar. Saltburn Methodist Church, in Milton Street, recently changed hands after the property was sold. Councillors have now granted permission for the change of use required for the venture from the existing place of worship.
Rob Henderson, a director of LJC Architectural Design, acting as an agent for the applicant, told a meeting of Redcar and Cleveland Council’s regulatory committee it was a “stunning” building and a major landmark in the town. Image: LDR He said: “My client has experience in running similar premises successfully and aims to provide a high-quality themed food hall and hostelry.” Mr Henderson said the applicant already ran No 23, a restaurant and bar in Milton Street, which specialises in authentic Neapolitan pizza.
A design and access statement said some of the most significant internal features within the building would be retained, including an organ frontage and pulpit, and pews which would be refigured to form a new fixed layout including tables and chairs. It said there would be four food outlets forming a food hall, offering different menus, with a bar and stage for events. The statement said: “The change of use will bring this much-loved building back into regular use as a hub within the local community.
“Being in regular use will ensure the building is kept in good repair and help to prevent it becoming a target for vandalism and anti-social .
