DOZENS of residents are against the Diocese of Chester’s plans to build a new vicarage while transforming the existing structure into homes.

The proposals for St Nicholas’ vicarage in Wallasey would affect the existing building on Groveland Road turning it into two homes, while also building a new smaller vicarage and third house on the same site.

But the plans for the site close to Wallasey Grove Road train station have been subject to a petition of 57 signatures as well as five individual objections.

According to a report to be discussed by Wirral Council’s planning committee on November 15, reasons for objection include:

1. Neighbouring properties will be 'devalued'

2. There will be a loss of 'important historic character'

3. The proposal constitutes over-development of the site

4. It will mean a loss of light to neighbours

5. Adjacent properties are bungalows, and this would be 'out of character'

Despite the objections, they are set to be approved by planners next week, with the report adding: “The proposed development allows for the continued use of the existing building with the provision of additional dwellings in line with local and national planning policy.”

According to the report, while the two new buildings would be built in the existing vicarage’s garden on either side of the current building

Both would still have 'generous rear gardens' if the development goes ahead.'

'Several' of the trees on the site, which is used in association with the church opposite, would also be removed to make way for car parking space, the report added.

The homes inside the existing vicarage would be laid out in a semi-detached style, and the plans have been submitted because, as the report said, 'the existing vicarage is significantly larger than is needed and results in high running cost.'

It added: “Both the new dwelling to the north of the site and the new vicarage to the south of the site, are set back from the building line of the existing building. This ensures that they appear subservient to the larger building and do not look cramped.

“The design of the new dwellings is traditional using detailing and materials which would complement the existing building. Although the ridge height of these buildings is lower than the central building, the eaves height is similar.

“This coupled with the design of the buildings and their set back means that they will not appear incongruous in this setting.”