Plans to convert a Macclesfield church into apartments and an HMO have been refused because of a lack of parking.

Cheshire East's planners had recommended the application to convert St George's Street Baptist Church into eight luxury apartments and a six-bed HMO (house in multiple occupation), despite the site having four parking spaces instead of 18 required by council policy.

On Wednesday (October 1) ward councillor Liz Braithwaite (Lab) told the northern planning committee: "To say I'm surprised the application has been recommended for approval is an understatement.

"The lack of a five-year housing supply is given disproportionate weight compared to the adverse impacts on the area.

"If refused, any appeal could be defended on amenity and parking grounds."

The church closed as a place of worship three years ago (Credit: Google Maps)

The church closed as a place of worship three years ago.

A representative from Elivi Property Group told Wednesday's meeting: "We purchased the building because we believe it deserves a new lease of life.

"Our vision to convert it into apartments not only protects the future of the building but also respects its character… and also will secure its long-term future."

Councillors agreed they would like to see the building re-purposed, but said the lack of parking would cause too many problems.

Cllr Fiona Wilson (Macclesfield, Lab) said: "I think putting a property like this, which is a very different change of use from what it was before, with only four parking spaces when 18 are required, it just isn't going to work."

Fellow Macclesfield councillor Judy Snowball (Lab) agreed saying: "It's a pity, because clearly it's a beautiful building.

"The heritage aspect is incredibly important for Macclesfield, and I would very much like to see it used in a sympathetic way and obviously I would very much want to support appropriate housing within Macclesfield, close to the town centre."

Cllr Snowball said she also had concerns about the layout in terms of fire safety – although acknowledged that came under building regulations not planning – adding, 'but most of all it's the parking'.

Cllr Anthony Harrison (Chelford, Con), who proposed the application be refused, said: "Parking is a really big issue for me. It's going to be a no."

Knutsford councillor Tony Dean (Con) seconded the move to refuse.

The application was refused on the grounds the proposal provides insufficient off-street parking and would result in an unacceptable impact on the availability of on-street parking within the vicinity of the site.

Seven councillors voted in favour of refusing and three voted against.