A FORMER church community hall could be controversially turned into a takeaway should plans be deemed acceptable by Barnsley Council.
An application was submitted to the planning board earlier this week to change the use of the centre, on Warren Quarry Lane, into a hot food takeaway and a commercial unit.
The applicant, Aziz Khan, says the proposed development would add to the local area.
A planning report states: “The site is located in a mixed-use area of Barnsley and has previously operated as a public house and later as a community centre affiliated with a church.
“The building is detached, with existing pedestrian and vehicular access from Warren Quarry Lane.
“It is not listed and lies outside any conservation area.
“The proposal includes internal alterations to divide the building and external changes to the front and side elevations, including new shop fronts and an extraction unit.
“Access to the site remains unchanged - each unit will have its own entrance via the new shop fronts.
“The internal layout will ensure inclusive access for all users, including those with mobility impairments.
“The proposed development represents a sustainable reuse of an existing commercial building, enhancing the local streetscape and providing new business opportunities.
“The design respects the character of the area and maintains compatibility with surrounding uses.”
Previous applications across the town for takeaways and restaurants have been rejected due to their close proximity to schools, though the community centre does not fall within that threshold, nor does the area exceed obesity levels.
Coun Phil Wright, who represents the area, has urged residents to submit their views on the plans.
He told the Chronicle: “Formally the working men's club, and since 2017 a community church, there is a planning application currently under consideration to convert the property into a hot food takeaway with a second commercial unit.
“With this church being the second Worsbrough Common church to close in recent times, it is reducing the number of local venues that can be used as places for community events.
“Fortunately Worsbrough Common still has the Vera Mawby Communty Centre to call upon.
“If you wish to have your views considered regarding the planning application please do so via the Barnsley Council planning board website.”
If the plans are approved, the takeaway will be open from 11am to 11pm from Monday to Saturday and from 12pm to 10pm on Sundays and bank holidays.
A total of 42 neighbouring properties have been made aware of the plans and the public can have their say until November 19.
A target decision date of Christmas Eve has been set.
