Abandoned Chapels and Loos Up for Grabs – Could You Give Them a New Lease of Life?

A series of historic chapels, former toilet blocks, and even an old apple store are being advertised for rent as part of Cornwall Council’s Vacant Chapel Scheme, offering a rare opportunity to breathe new life into these forgotten buildings.

10 Sites Available for Transformation

Cornwall Council has put 10 disused buildings on the market, all located on council-owned sites and in need of refurbishment. The properties are available on a 15-year lease, with rental reductions offered where significant investment is required.

The move follows the success of last year’s scheme, which saw seven chapel buildings leased out and undergoing renovation.

Councillor Carol Mould, portfolio holder for Neighbourhoods, welcomed the potential revival of the buildings, stating:

“It’s fantastic to see these buildings being given a second chance and transformed into valued community spaces. These are beautiful historic chapels and I’m looking forward to seeing what proposals come forward and how we can work with community groups, businesses and other organisations to bring these buildings back to their former glory.”

Helston Chapel Transformation Underway

One of the latest buildings to be let, Helston Old Chapel, is already being redeveloped by Trevow Helston CIC, a community interest group aiming to create a vibrant cultural hub.

With initial funding of £17,500 from the Community Capacity Fund, the group has since secured a further £101,208.25 from the Good Growth Community Levelling Up Programme to restore the chapel’s windows, doors, shutters, and floors, as well as upgrade the electrics.

Director Guy Watson explained the group’s vision for the site:

“As a Community Interest Company, our mission is to enrich Helston through regularly offering high-quality, aspirational creative and community events and activities.”

He added:

“These essential improvements will create a space where we can host a diverse programme of theatre, dance, live music, spoken word performances, cultural workshops, and participatory projects all year round. This investment represents a significant first step in developing a welcoming creative community hub for Helston.”

How to Get Involved

Cornwall Council is now inviting proposals for the remaining sites, with further details on the buildings and tendering process available on their website: Vacant Chapels Scheme.

For those with a passion for restoration or community projects, this could be a unique opportunity to transform a piece of Cornwall’s history into something new.