A historic former church is set to be transformed into an art gallery, exhibition space and an artist’s studio.
St James’, New Bury, Farnworth, which has been closed to worshippers since 2012, has been put up for sale by the Church of England.
Earlier proposals for residential use were included in a draft scheme published in September 2020.
The C of E said that is no longer proceeding and that scheme has been withdrawn.
In October last year there was also an expression of interest in converting St James into a community space for young people.
A draft scheme published by church commissioners this week under the church buildings disposal scheme, gave details of the latest proposals.
It said: “The commissioners have agreed to publish a draft scheme providing for the closed church of New Bury St James to be appropriated to use as an artist’s studio with gallery and exhibition space.
“The scheme contains provisions for the property to be sold and for the contents of the building to be disposed of as the bishop shall direct.”
Built between 1862 and 1865 and designed in an early English style by Isaac Holden and Sons of Manchester, St James’ features a steeply pitched nave roof and tall gabled west belcote.
The church is constructed of local rock-faced stone with a scissor-braced timber roof covered in slate.
Notable contents include the stone font, a tableau wood carving of the last supper and a stained glass World War I memorial.
The report added that there are a large number of graves in the churchyard, which was closed for burials in 2011.
The graveyard is maintained by the council and public access to graves will continue as at present.
The C of E is consulting on the sale of the church until February 25.
Until then, anyone may make a representation for or against any provision of the draft scheme by email to closedchurches.reps@churchofengland.org or by writing to the commissioners.
