By Jenny Barwise

Last updated at 12:41, Saturday, 22 September 2012

A church in Whitehaven which has been unused for two decades is to be auctioned off at a quarter of the price it was valued at five years ago.

The former Methodist Church

The former Methodist Church on Lowther Street closed its doors 20 years ago and after failed attempts to sell the Grade II-listed building, it will once again go under the hammer in two weeks.

But this time it’s guide price is £150,000 less than the £200,000 it was in 2007. The estate agents holding the auction says that the loss is due to a number of reasons, including a slump in the property market.

In 2004 the church, which sits on the corner of Lowther Street, was granted planning permission for an ambitious £1m transformation into a nightclub, piano bar and restaurant.

But this never went ahead.

Steven Taylor, property manager at Homes Search Direct, said that whoever buys the building will need spend money on it as it has had some “wear and tear” after standing empty for 20 years.

He said: “It has been empty for a little while. It has lots of original character and is a good investment property.

“There are people who have inquired about it already. We’ll see how it goes on the day.”

Mr Taylor has been in contact with Copeland Council’s planning team, who are keen for the 130-year-old building to be transformed.

Fierce objections came from religious leaders and nearby residents when the nightclub plans were revealed.

It will go under the hammer on October 4 at Carlisle United Football Ground, off Warwick Road, Carlisle.

First published at 10:50, Saturday, 22 September 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk