PLANS to bulldoze a derelict Bournemouth church and make way for a convenience store look set to be approved by civic planners, despite public protests.

Clanfield Properties Ltd have applied for planning permission to demolish the United Reformed Church in East Howe Lane and build a convenience store on the site, with parking, a new access and services yard.

In a report to be considered by the council’s planning board on Monday, planning officer Tom Hubbard states: “The church and associated buildings are no longer used. Residential development on the site is precluded as it is within the 400-metre Dorset Heathlands buffer zone, and it has been stated that there are few other viable uses for the site.

“The area is characterised by a mix of development including single and two-storey residential properties, commercial development in the form of retail shops and a petrol filling station.

“Neither of the main buildings are listed or considered to be of any strong architectural merit that would prevent their demolition.”

Three letters of objections have been sent to the Town Hall as well as a petition containing 190 signatures. Concerns cited by objectors include noise and disturbance, highway safety and unsympathetic design.

Recommending that the scheme should be granted, subject to conditions, Mr Hubbard adds: “It is not considered that the residential amenities of neighbouring residents would be harmed in terms of noise and disturbance.”

Ward councillor Dennis Gritt said: “I’m surprised by the petition because nobody has approached me with any concerns.

“I can understand the sentimental value of the church – I attended Boys’ Brigade there many years ago – but, rather than strangle the area, a new convenience store may well encourage more people to shop at other local businesses.

“The church is in a poor state and there have been litter problems there; I support the recommendation to grant approval for the scheme.”