Redevelopment of Maiden Street Methodist Church under way

After a long delay, developers have confirmed work has officially started on the former Maiden Street Methodist Church in Weymouth which is being restored to create 24 apartments and a three-bedroom cottage.

The Grade II* listed church was partially destroyed by a fire in January 2002 and has been decaying ever since, having previously described as a ‘gutless roofless ruin’ by Historic England which labelled the site 'at risk'. 

Several proposals for the site redevelopment have been put forward throughout the years, including plans for flats and a restaurant.

The site was eventually purchased by the Oxford-based Cranbourne Group which established Cranbourne Enterprises (Weymouth) Ltd to progress its plans.

The Echo reported how enabling works were being carried out at the site last month. 

The footpath along the side of development has now been closed off.
 

Work on the former Methodist Church has begun (Image: Alfie Lumb)  A Cranbourne spokesperson said: “Work has officially begun. We’re hoping to formerly release more development details soon.

“The building was left derelict, which is not the easiest to develop or restore, and it’s great that we, along with Woodmace, are now taking the work on.

“We understand the highway has been stopped up, and this had to be done out of season to minimise disruption to the area."

The spokesperson added: “We anticipate for the project to take around 18 months to complete, with intentions to create a show home on site.”

New hoarding has been seen around the site from contractors, Woodmace (Image: Alfie Lumb) Woodmace are groundwork contractors which had previously been involved in renovations to Dorset County Hospital's multi-storey car park.

The Echo understands that news from selling agent Goadsby is expected next week, with more information.

Dorset Councillor for Melcombe Regis, Cllr Jon Orrell, said: "It's fantastic news that work has started on this important, historic building. 

"It's been left empty and neglected for too long, and it's wonderful to see it come back into use and provide much-needed housing."

The developers have launched a Facebook group, Evolution Weymouth – The Old Methodist Church.

A statement on the page on behalf of Cranbourne Homes states: "We’re thrilled to have you join us as we begin this journey of transforming the historic former Methodist Church site into a vibrant residential space.

"Now, with construction underway, we’re set to blend its historic charm with contemporary living through 24 thoughtfully crafted apartments and The Old Chapel House, a three-bedroom cottage.

"This group is your space to stay informed, share memories, ask questions, and connect with others who are excited about Evolution. We’ll be posting regular updates, progress photos, and behind-the-scenes stories to keep you in the loop."

The Echo has previously reported on the state the building has been in, as well as the new website Evolution Weymouth, which has shown artist renderings of what the site will be like.

The derelict site was previously granted planning permission for an apartment scheme and since renewed its plans to carry out the project after making some amendments to the design which includes a cottage. The apartments are priced between £150k to £215k, with the cottage priced at £385k.