AN application to build shops and industrial units on the site of a church destroyed by fire has been refused.

The application to demolish 114 Undercliffe Road, an old church building, and replace it with modern units was submitted to Bradford Council by a Mr Kabir in April.

Weeks after the application was received, the church was hit by a fierce blaze. Within days the building had been demolished.

But now the application, to replace the church with a building that would include two shops and four industrial units, has been refused by planning officers on Bradford Council.

They pointed out that with the church having already been demolished, they had to decide on the plans based on the merit of the new building.

Officers said: “Whilst the church was demolished without securing the necessary consents, it is not listed, is not in a conservation area and is not subject of any other statutory protection.

“On this basis, we will assess the restoration of the site by virtue of the proposed replacement building.”

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They said the artificial stone proposed for the building was not suitable, adding: “The original longstanding church was constructed in natural stone and slate.

“These materials are commonly found on the surrounding residential properties and contribute positively to the appearance of the street scape.”

Highways officers also raised concerns, pointing out that the five proposed parking spaces were not enough for two shops and four commercial units.

They said: “The proposed development fails to provide sufficient off street car parking spaces and does not provide safe and suitable servicing arrangements for the units.”

And officers also had an issue with the industrial units planned for the site, saying it was “unacceptable” for a residential area.

After the decision Councillor Si Cunningham (Lab, Bolton and Undercliffe) said: "When the fire broke out, I shared the concerns and frustrations of many local residents who had hoped to see the old building retained and refurbished where possible, but sadly that is no longer possible.

“The circumstances of the fire, and the subsequent emergency demolition, are still under investigation by the relevant authorities, so I couldn't comment on that further.

“What I have said, though, is that the fire shouldn't be used as an opportunity to rush through any new building, which is why I referred it to the planning team, who've refused this application.

“I'll continue to ensure that due planning process is followed, and that any replacement building is of the highest quality, and meets the approval of local residents."