Historic Wiltshire chapel to be restored after years empty

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 7 Nov, 06:09 · Archive

A 250-year-old Grade II-listed Strict Baptist chapel in Bradenstoke, Wiltshire, could be restored under new ownership plans.

Daniel Glover and Kelly Glover have submitted proposals to restore Providence Chapel in Bradenstoke, near Lyneham, which has stood empty for more than four years. The Grade II-listed Strict Baptist chapel dates from 1777 and is regarded as an important surviving example of an 18th-century Nonconformist chapel complex. It was first listed in 1955 and stands within a conservation area.

The chapel is no longer in regular religious use. Under the new plans, the adjoining Manse would continue as a residential home whilst the chapel would remain physically and functionally separate rather than being converted into residential accommodation. Historic features including windows, fireplaces, joinery and architectural detailing would be retained or repaired wherever possible.

One unusual element of the scheme involves a wooden First World War-era hut behind the chapel. The building was originally acquired as temporary accommodation while the chapel underwent major refurbishment in the 1920s. It was subsequently moved behind the chapel and used as a schoolroom. The owners now want to demolish it, arguing its removal would make the original chapel easier to appreciate.

The site's wildlife will also have to be carefully protected as part of the restoration work.

How it is being reported

• New life for 250-year-old Wiltshire chapel after years of standing emptyA 250-year-old village chapel that has stood empty for years could be given a new lease of life under plans to restore the historic building.Gazette & Herald · 7 Nov, 05:00
• New life for 250-year-old Wiltshire chapel after years of standing emptyA 250-year-old village chapel that has stood empty for years could be given a new lease of life under plans to restore the historic building.Swindon Advertiser · 7 Nov, 05:00
• New life for 250-year-old Wiltshire chapel after years of standing emptyA 250-year-old village chapel that has stood empty for years could be given a new lease of life under plans to restore the historic building.Wiltshire Times · 7 Nov, 05:00

In this story: Daniel Glover · Kelly Glover · Providence Chapel · Bradenstoke · Lyneham · Wiltshire

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