Church plans changes to ensure survival

A church in Onchan says it needs to remove pews and improve the premises as it offers itself for hire in order to survive.

St Peters church in Church Road has applied for registered building consent to make the changes, which include replacing its central heating pipes and radiators.

In its application, it says it's facing a £250,000 repair bill - but only has £100,000 in the bank.

In order to pay for work on its windows, spire, and interior, it says it wants to hire itself out to community groups.

St Peter's churchwardens say they want to remove the buildings pews, which date back to the 1930s, to be replaced by chairs.

The baptismal font would be moved, as would storage cupboards around pillars, in order to create more space.

In the application, the church says it currently brings in around £60,000 per year from donations, its congregation, weddings and funerals.

But it requires £100,000 a year to run, and says it could make up the shortfall by charging to host events such as indoor boot sales and dances.