Liverpool church to be converted into c-store

A church in south Liverpool could be converted into a new shop under plans submitted to Liverpool Council.

Members of the council’s planning committee are set to consider proposals to convert the former Methodist Church on Banks Road in Speke into a convenience store.

The plans would see windows of the church blocked up and new signage added but otherwise its appearance would remain largely unchanged.

However, the new plans have drawn opposition from some neighbours and former councillors concerned over the proposed shop, which would be open from 7am to 10pm.

Many raised concerns over the potential for increased traffic to the road, as well as whether the shop would sell alcohol.

A summary of some of the objections said: “The church is right next to Banks Road Primary School. The shop being built will affect children’s education, as they will be distracted by the noises through the school.

“I feel that this shop will negatively impact the school community, be it through unhealthy habits and also through cars visiting the shop.

“There are already 2 or more off-licences in the area, far enough away from the school that they don’t affect the children, but close enough for the rest of the community to get their shopping done.”

The council’s planning officers have recommended the committee back the plans.

In response to worries about increased traffic, officers said “it should be acknowledged that the site was formerly used as a church/community centre whereby a level of weekday and weekend traffic and associated on street parking would have been generated.”

It is not yet clear whether the shop will sell alcohol, as this would be an issue for the council’s licensing department and would be handled separately.

Liverpool Council’s planning committee will consider the proposals on Tuesday.