Plans to build eight flats on the site of a former church have been rejected by Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

Planning officers refused permission for the development on the vacant land at the junction of Regina Street and Ford Green Road, Smallthorne, because of concerns about living conditions and the effect on the appearance and character of the local area.

The Smallthorne Methodist Church was demolished in the late 1990s. Two two-storey blocks, each containing four one-bedroom flats, were proposed for the land alongside a new vehicle access.

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application said planning permission had previously been granted for four homes on the site. It added: "The application site is considered to be located in a sustainable location, within close proximity to existing residential and commercial areas.

"The layout has been determined to make the most efficient use of the site. The buildings (have) been sited towards the front of the site to follow the existing pattern of development along Regina Street and Ford Green Road, with a small forecourt area to the frontage ensuring that the character and amenity of the locality is not compromised."

But the planning decision notice stated: "The development as proposed would go against the prevailing pattern of development and clearly harm the rhythm, character and appearance of the local area through its poor design and layout which does not respect its setting nor achieve a purposeful use of the site. The development is not compliant in providing sufficient living conditions for all existing and future occupants; adequate levels of privacy to habitable rooms of existing and future occupants are not effectively achieved."

You can view images of the former place of worship and the history of it on this link.