Controversial plans to turn a redundant Workington church into flats for vulnerable people are set to get the go-ahead next week.

Developer NIS Developments Ltd wants to create 22 supported-living flats at the site of the old Trinity Methodist Church, on South William Street – retaining the facade of the building.

Neighbours, including nearby St Patrick's Primary School, have raised concerns about the plans.

The school's governors fear the housing could be used for people with addiction problems.

Objectors said there were already a significant number of vulnerable residents close by, leading to used syringes, empty beer cans and broken bottles being regularly found close to the church building.

Meanwhile, neighbours on Wybrow Terrace are concerned that the demolition work could pose a risk to their homes, which are in close proximity to the redundant building, and block access.

John Metherell, of Wybrow Terrace, penned one of four formal letters of objection to Allerdale council.

He was worried it could be for people with drink or drug issues, and was concerned about the redevelopment work.

He said: “We live within six metres of the proposed demolition of the gable of the church parish building. I can’t see how this can be demolished without significant risk to my property.”

He was concerned about access if the terrace was closed during work hours and public safety if it stayed open.

Jonathan Gray, of Wybrow Terrace, said: “There’s limited access for builders vehicles, etc.”

The town council said the project would have a significant impact on access and traffic flow on South William Street, with insufficient parking planned.

It added: “The amount of units proposed would result in an overdevelopment.”

The council also received one letter in support of the plans, but questions were raised about why the developer was retaining the front of the building instead of improving the whole thing.

Allerdale ward councillor Billy Miskelly called in the plans due to residents' concerns. This meant they had to be sent to the development panel for a decision rather than planning officers being able to give the go ahead under delegated powers.

Officers have recommended the plans be approved when the panel meets on Tuesday, June 27.

In a report to councillors, they said: "The proposed use for residential development is considered to be appropriate to the locality which is a mix of uses, including residential.

"Whilst front to front separation distances will be only 11-12m, this reflects the tight grain of historic terraces within the locality.

"The proposal is considered to provide an acceptable standard of housing environment."

The boarded-up church building dates from the 1890s. The building was sold last year to Woodrow Construction, after being on the market for many years.

A spokesman for NIS Developments Ltd said the company was in talks with HB Villages to take on the development as supported housing for elderly people, but the final decision on who would live in there would be down to the organisation that took it on.

He said: “This is a significant building in the middle of Workington. It’s a landmark. We are responding to the needs of the town for housing provision and maintaining that fantastic building facade.”