An historic church could be transformed into housing after plans were lodged with Blackpool Council to demolish the building.
The Kings Christian Centre, formerly known as the Claremont Congregational Church, on Warley Road, North Shore, could be levelled under plans lodged by Blackpool-based GO Developments, with a view to turning the site into homes.
The church, built in 1900, could be knocked down to make way for apartments or housing, according to site owner Ged O’Mahoney.
He said: “The building is totally derelict.
“It is about to fall down – it could be any day.
“The site is almost condemnable. To restore it you would be looking at £1.5m.
“It is not financially viable to restore it.
“If given permission I hope to start work in January.”
Mr O’Mahoney, who bought the site for £250,000, said the 114-year-old building had been listed by Blackpool Council, but due to the extensive rebuilding work has been told by planners the status is no longer required.
Today councillors in Warbreck ward said the building was in need of redevelopment.
Coun Tony Brown (pictured) said: “It is very run down and there has been talk of turning it into a soup kitchen but it has come to nought.
“It is sad to see it as it is.
“Something needs to be done.
“It is not right for the neighbours who live nearby to suffer if the building is in a poor condition.”
The demolition application will be considered by planners in the coming weeks.
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