Historic Cannock church to become smokehouse restaurant
A historic Grade-II listed church will be converted into a restaurant after plans were given the go-ahead.
The ‘change of use’ application for Cannock United Reformed Church on Stafford Road was submitted to the district council by Chase Smokehouse in January.
The building, which is next to South Staffordshire College opposite Cannock's bus station, was built in 1824 and last renovated in 2012 when a ‘modern conservatory entrance porch’ was added.
Councillor Maureen Freeman, who lives close to the building, said: “It is good news for Cannock because we need nice restaurants in the town.
“It’s a listed building – the most important thing was that there were conditions put on it because it’s such a historic building.
"The building has got a lot of history and people in Cannock would not want to see anything happen to it. It is a very significant building in the town.
“I had initial concerns about parking on the site but there is a massive car park in the town – it wouldn’t have been an issue. For me, I have no objections.
“The building is quite hidden and you can miss it easily. It may have been part of the college way back.
"There’s been a lot of money spent on it over the years but it’s been kept in its original state.
"I'm glad to see something different serving the people of Cannock."
Listed building consent was also granted by the local authority.
Councillor Paul Snape, ward member for Cannock West and leader of the opposition group at the council, said: “I’ll always welcome another restaurant if it brings trade to Cannock – if the people who own the church are happy let it go it could be win-win situation for everyone."
A planning document states: “The sympathetic re-use and enhancement of this nationally important historic building will help to ensure its continued preservation and contribution towards Cannock’s local distinctive character.
“The proposals will also help to strengthen the historic character and the quality of the wider townscape and Conservation Area as well as contributing towards the sustainable regeneration of Cannock for the benefit of the local community.”
