Listed Doncaster Church to Undergo Adaptive Reuse
A 220-year-old Grade II listed former Doncaster church in city centre is set to undergo a major transformation after receiving approval for redevelopment. The historic United Reformed Church on Hall Gate, which has remained unused since 2018, will be converted into a restaurant and wine bar.
The property was sold in 2022 by its previous owners, the Yorkshire Congregational Union, after it was deemed no longer necessary for religious or community use. The new owner, Building Link Design Architects, stated in their proposal that the space “needs to be sympathetically re-purposed” to ensure its continued relevance and preservation.
Doncaster church Council has now approved the redevelopment, with the project expected to boost the local economy by creating new jobs and generating tax revenue.
Preserving Heritage While Creating a Modern Venue
The transformation of the historic church will be undertaken with careful attention to its architectural integrity. The developers have assured that key features of the building will be preserved, with only minimal changes planned for the exterior.
One of the innovative ideas in the proposal suggests that the original wooden pews could be incorporated into the restaurant’s interior design, maintaining a connection to the building’s past.
Despite the overall support for repurposing the church, concerns have been raised regarding the potential loss of historic materials. The Doncaster church Civic Trust expressed its appreciation for the building being brought back into use but emphasized the importance of preserving as much of its original character as possible.
Community and Conservation Groups Weigh In
The redevelopment has sparked discussions among heritage and conservation groups. While there were some concerns about interior modifications, organizations such as the Historic Buildings and Places charity voiced strong support for the project.
According to the charity, converting the church into a restaurant “would work well with the grain and the character of this handsome and evocative building.” Meanwhile, the Doncaster Civic Trust also supported the removal of a modern café building at the front of the site, which had been an earlier addition by the previous owners.
With the approval secured, the project now moves forward, bringing new life to one of Doncaster’s church cherished landmarks. Once completed, the venue is expected to offer a unique dining and social experience, blending historic charm with modern hospitality.
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