Plans to turn historic church into fitness centre

Plans could see the 182-year-old church turned into a gym

One of the oldest Episcopal churches in southern Scotland is in line to become a gym and fitness centre.

The B-listed St John's Church in Annan was built in 1843 but was closed last year and advertised for sale.

Plans have now been lodged by its new owner to bring it back into use by converting it, along with its hall.

An application by agents on behalf of personal trainer Ellie McCormick said the work would be carried out "sensitively" to provide a modern community use while preserving its "historical and architectural integrity".

The pews and church organ would be removed under the plans

The Gothic church in red sandstone was designed by Christopher Hodgson of Carlisle.

Its east window - depicting St John the Evangelist - was installed in 1892 and the church hall built a year later.

A supporting statement for its conversion plans said the gym would operate between 06:00 and 21:00 daily.

"The proposed works have been carefully designed to ensure minimal intervention and maximum reversibility, in line with best practice for listed buildings," it added.

The only substantial alterations inside the church will be the removal of the pews and the church organ.

"The ongoing maintenance of the driveway, graves, and garden will remain a priority," added the statement.

It concluded that the proposal sought to deliver a "sustainable, well-managed gym and fitness centre" that would respect the "heritage significance of the church and church hall".