ONE of the earliest purpose-built chapels in Bradford is to be converted into two homes.

Planning chiefs granted planning permission and Listed Building Consent for the historic building on Lands Lane in Eccleshill.

The Grade II-listed building is hundreds of years old and in recent years has fallen into disrepair.

It was built in the 1770s and Conservation Officer Jon Ackroyd said it has "considerable social and historic significance".

He added: "Despite not having been used as a chapel for over 150 years, it retains a number of external original features and its original purpose is very evident from its appearance and character.

"It is recognised that the building is deteriorating and now disused, and in principle, the proposed residential use is appropriate and will afford an assured future to the building."

He said that the plan was regarded as a "sympathetic scheme which will secure a long-term future for the building".

Planning officer Nina Preston said: "A structural appraisal provided identifies serious defects with the west gable end of the building.

"It is acknowledged that this has gone beyond being capable of restraint in-situ ad rebuilding is the only option.

"The method proposed appears reasonable and will ensure stability of the rest of the building during works."

She added: "The doors initially proposed were considered overtly fussy and not complementary and required simplifying to enable a clear understanding of what is original and what is not.

"The window details initially provided were inadequate with no clarity on glazing bar thickness or profile.

"Amended plans received during the course of the application have been reviewed by the Senior Conservation Officer, with the window and door details clarified.

"The details are considered acceptable and will not harm the significance of the listed building."

However, the report said: "The most concerning element of the proposal is the structural works to the roof to facilitate the second floor accommodation in the existing attic space.

"The roof structure is substantially original and despite some modest repairs and flaws, is in surprisingly good condition for its age, indicative of carpentry techniques of the time."

Concern was raised over the alteration of trusses, but 'sympathetic' alterations were said to be "the only option to make the scheme viable".

The planning officer said: "In view of the revisions received, the proposed development is considered to preserve and enhance the special and historic interest in which it possesses."