Derelict city church is dangerous, says council

Ermine United Reform Church in Lincoln has fallen into disrepair and has been deemed unsafe by the council

A derelict church said to be attracting anti-social behaviour could be demolished within months.

City of Lincoln Council bought Ermine United Reform Church, in Sudbrooke Drive, for an undisclosed "strategic purpose" several years ago, but it has fallen into disrepair.

The authority has submitted an application to its own planning officers to see if a full application would be needed for the demolition.

No plans have yet been put forward for what could replace the 1950s-built church.

If a full planning application is not needed, the church is expected to be demolished between May and August, states the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Planning documents state: "The council purchased the church for a strategic purpose.

"However, the reason why the church will need to be demolished is due to the site containing hidden spots, therefore attracting anti-social behaviour and putting the local community at risk.

"The building is also in poor condition and would be dangerous if broken into. The site would be safer if the building is demolished and the site is turfed to await any future development."

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