A striking piece of Sheffield's architectural heritage is set to go under the hammer later this month, offering a rare chance to secure a characterful development project. The historic former Methodist chapel on Chapel Road in Woodhouse will feature in an online auction with a competitive guide price of £125,000.
A Landmark Building with Grand Italianate Style
This imposing Grade II-listed sandstone church is a local landmark, dating all the way back to 1878. Constructed in a grand Italianate style, the two-storey building spans approximately 2,300 sq ft and sits within a 0.16-acre site complete with surrounding gardens. Both inside and out, the property retains a wealth of its original architectural features, presenting a well-preserved canvas for its next chapter.
Potential for Sensitive Redevelopment
While the building's future use requires careful consideration, it presents considerable scope for a sympathetic conversion. It is noted that previous plans, which included creating a mezzanine floor and eight apartments, were refused on appeal. This highlights the need for any new proposals to be sensitive to the building's significant heritage credentials.
Adrian Little, a director at Mark Jenkinson, which is part of Eddisons, commented on the opportunity. "This is a striking and historically significant building that will appeal to buyers looking for a character property with real presence," he said. "Although planning consent has previously been refused, the church offers considerable scope for a sensitive alternative use, subject to the necessary consents."
Anticipated Interest from Diverse Bidders
The auction house expects strong interest in this unique lot, anticipating bids from a broad range of potential buyers. "We anticipate interest from a broad range of bidders, including developers, investors and those looking to secure a unique building with strong architectural and heritage credentials," added Mr Little. He emphasised that "properties as well preserved as this one come up for sale quite rarely, particularly with such a competitive guide price."
The online auction event, run by Mark Jenkinson, will see bidding open on January 27, before closing the following day, January 28. Full details regarding viewings and the bidding process are available on the auctioneer's website. This sale represents a notable opportunity to shape the future of a key building in the Woodhouse community.
