A CHURCH dating back almost 250 years could be transformed into a new family home.

East Lothian Council is considering proposals by Brian and Barry Moore to turn Innerwick Parish Church, which dates back to 1784, into a four-bedroom home.

A supporting statement with the plans said that conversions to the property “would not negatively impact neighbour amenity or the amenity of the surrounding area”.

Various alterations have been carried out at the church over the years, including the relocation of the communion table and pulpit, as well as the installation of the organ and lectern.

The document reads: “In 1994 the Parish of Dunglass was created out of the three parishes of Cockburnspath, Innerwick and Oldhamstocks.

“Cockburnspath is now the only Church of Scotland church in Dunglass Parish with the closure of Innerwick and Oldhamstocks in 2022.

“Innerwick Parish Church was recorded by the Threatened Building Survey on July 29, 2022. The survey was prompted by the proposed closure and sale of the church.

“The purchase of the church was recently completed and is now in the ownership of the applicants.”

Little is planned in the way of changes outside the building, with works to be “kept to a minimum” in order to have “near to no impact” on the existing listed church.

Drawings included with the application show an open plan area featuring a kitchen, dining and sitting area on the ground floor.

There would also be two bedrooms, one en-suite, and an accessible bathroom.

A mezzanine floor would then be home to two further en-suite bedrooms.

The document reads: “The proposed conversion intends to retain and preserve the existing character and appearance of the building and have minimal impact on its surroundings and the conservation area. The conservation area of Innerwick is predominantly residential and therefore the change of use to residential accommodation would be in keeping with the character of the area.

“The grounds of the existing church consist mainly of the existing surrounding graveyard. There is to be no impact on this and it is shown outwith the application site boundary but within the ownership boundary.”

David Mumford, who represents the village on East Lammermuir Community Council, said feelings were somewhat mixed.

He told the Courier there was sadness that the church had closed but it was pleasing to see the building would be used and not neglected.

He added: “If it is going to be sold off privately, being turned into residential accommodation is a lot better than some of the things that might be applied for.”