AN historic former church in Gourock is to be turned into a house under bold new plans which have been lodged for approval with Inverclyde Council.

The picturesque former St Bartholomew’s Church, which sits on the hillside at Barrhill Road overlooking the River Clyde, was put on the market back in December 2022 by the Scottish Episcopal Church.

It attracted hundreds of potential buyers before a deal was eventually struck last February.

Over 200 enquiries were made, leading to a closing date being set for offers at over £80,000 – the valuation of the property.

Now a full blueprint is in front of council officials bidding to convert it into a residential dwelling.

The plans have been devised by local firm Rebecchi Architectural and would see a new mezzanine level added to the building, along with a glazed extension.

Greenock Telegraph:

The new house would have dining and lounge areas, a bedroom, a sitting room, guest/public rooms and an office.

Outside designs also show a raised terrace and space for off-street parking.

A much-loved local landmark, the B-Listed church was shut down in July 2022 after 160 years of operation, after its tight-knit congregation took the difficult decision to close.

Greenock Telegraph:

Designed originally by J C Sharp of Gourock 1867 and extended by H D Walton in c.1895, the church boasts stunning features, including a chancel extension enhanced by a beautiful window depicting the Ascension designed by George Walton.

In keeping with the Episcopalian design and architecture, St Bartholomew's has a beautiful altar and relics, with many of its original features expected to be retained by the new owners.

Council officials are scrutinising the plans for the residential conversion work and will then make a recommendation on whether they should be accepted or not, with a decision expected some time later this year.