WORK to transform of an historic Stockton Heath church is getting a little bigger.

The former Stockton Heath Christian Fellowship building on Chapel Lane is being turned into apartments - the frontage of the building will be saved.

Work started earlier this year to create five flats. But plans have now been agreed by Warrington Borough Council to add a sixth.

Applicant Bold Projects North West is breathing new life into the structure, which dates back to the 19th century.

The chapel has a long history in Warrington but was erected in its current site in October 1828.

The application site is a former chapel building and youth centre. The site consists of a main building with a modern extension and a two-storey building to the front of the site known as ‘The Cottage’.

The proposals involve the conversion of the chapel building into six two-bedroom apartments, as well as the demolition of The Cottage and the modern porch extension.

A part two-storey, part single-storey wraparound extension would be built as well as two dormers.

When plans were approved, the planning documents stated: “The design rationale behind this project was to preserve the original chapel building as far as possible and enhance the visibility of the existing structure.

“We looked to remove elements that are harmful to the setting of the building and present it in the best possible way, while providing a use that will preserve the long-term future of the building.”

In granting permission, an officer report concluded: “The principle of a residential development at the application site is acceptable."

Stockton Heath Parish Council said it has concerns over adding an extra flat as no parking is included in the scheme and Chapel Lane and the surrounding streets are already busy.