Plans to convert a derelict chapel into a "spectacular" apartment development in Colwyn Bay has been dealt a setback from planners.
The imposing former Engedi Welsh Calvinistic Methodist chapel has lain empty for 20 years.
Manchester developer Gothic & Stone bought the site and submitted plans - drawn up by GA Studio Architects - for 19 units in a £3m scheme.
It had been tipped to help with the regeneration of the seaside town and preliminary work had already started.
But it has hit a snag with planning officers over parking.
Officers say the lack of any off-street parking provision is a "serious concern".
They added: "The reliance of the scheme on parking on other car parks in the town centre does not lessen concerns, therefore officers do not support the scheme.
"Furthermore, there are concerns that the addition of the large rooflights would introduce an incongruous feature into the roof to the detriment of the character of the building and the setting of the neighbouring conservation area."
This has seen them recommend Conwy council's planning committee reject the application.
The committee meets on Wednesday to discuss the proposal.
Site history
The Engedi Welsh Calvinistic Methodist chapel, on Woodland Road West in Colwyn Bay, first opened its doors to worshipers in 1879.
The Methodist church closed in 1987 and the building was then used as a place of worship by the Elim Pentecostal Church in the 1990s before falling into disuse around the turn of the millennium.
The deal to acquire the property was completed in mid-March.
Ross Wellman, partner in the property department at Glaisyers, said: “From our perspective this is a really positive story, showing that life continues to go on in the residential sector even during the peak of lockdown.
"Trinity will be a spectacular addition to Colwyn Bay when the scheme is completed, contributing to the resort’s ongoing regeneration, and I am really pleased we have been able to be involved."
Gothic & Stone - who had been advised in the deal by Glaisyers - is a venture established by the Aberystwyth-born, Manchester-based property developer Alexander Taylor. Mr Taylor is also involved in a number of residential developments around the North West of England.
He previously said: “Significant amounts of money have been invested in the seafront and Colwyn Bay is now a really bustling town, or rather it will be again when we come out of lockdown.”
He also hailed the skills available in the area, saying Gothic and Stone has been able to secure local stone masons and stained-glass restorers to work on the project.
“You just wouldn’t find the same artisan skills in a big city,” he said.
