Winners Chapel

Zerum provided planning advice to support the preparation of the pre-application and planning strategy and prepared the planning submission for the demolition of the existing building and the construction of a Place of Worship (Use Class F.1), along with associated landscaping, parking, and modifications to the existing access. The planning application was submitted on behalf of World Mission Agency – Winners Chapel International.

The former Convent of the Good Shepherd will be demolished and replaced with a new church building designed to be a  versatile community hall for the congregation, adaptable for a variety of uses such as community meetings, cultural events, and other gatherings. The church will also feature a community café for the congregation. The proposals include a large visitor car park and extensive landscaping improvements, including a children’s play area and a community garden.

The new church site is located in Blackley and will deliver a transformative place of worship for a growing congregation, providing a much-needed space that better meets the needs of its members.

The existing building had been vacant for several years, with most of its structures dating back to the 1960s. During its vacancy, the building was affected by the elements, lack of maintenance, and vandalism. The site also features significant trees and landscaping, and efforts were made to preserve as many of the existing trees as possible.

As mentioned, a key priority for the client was the retention and enhancement of the existing gardens, which form a significant part of the site. Consequently, the decision was made early in the design process to position the new building in the same location as the existing structure. Additionally, careful consideration was given to access arrangements and how to effectively manage the high volume of visitors expected during peak times.

Other benefits of the proposal include:

• Establishment of a community café for the congregation, offering hot drinks to homeless individuals and struggling families on Saturdays, and serving as a monthly food bank.
• Creation of a community garden, open to the public.
• Implementation of sustainable transport solutions, including shuttle buses, cycle storage, and EV charging stations, to encourage eco-friendly travel.
• A strong focus on sustainability throughout the development, featuring the installation of PV panels on the roof and the use of energy-efficient building materials.