THE conversion of the former St Bart's Church in Gourock into a house has been passed by council planners.

The picturesque building, which sits on the hillside at Barrhill Road overlooking the River Clyde, was put on the market back in December 2022 by the Scottish Episcopal Church.

It attracted hundreds of potential buyers before a deal was eventually struck last February.

Planning officials have now approved proposals drawn up by Rebecchi Architectural to convert the building into a residential dwelling.

The new house will have dining and lounge areas, a bedroom, a sitting room, guest/public rooms and an office. It will also  feature a new mezzanine level, a glazed extension and a terrace.

A much-loved local landmark, the B-Listed church was shut down in July 2022 after 160 years of operation, after its tight-knit congregation took the difficult decision to close.

Designed originally by J C Sharp of Gourock 1867 and extended by H D Walton in c.1895, the church boasts stunning features, including a chancel extension enhanced by a beautiful window depicting the Ascension designed by George Walton.

In keeping with the Episcopalian design and architecture, St Bartholomew's has a beautiful altar and relics, with many of its original features expected to be retained by the new owners.