Plans have been submitted to convert the former Higher Ince Labour Club in Anderton Street, Ince, into a place of worship and community hub. The building has been vacant since 2021.
Background and Previous Status
In 2024, councillors were told that two businesses which had tried to run the club had suffered bankruptcy. The building had previously been declared an 'asset of community value', offering some protection against development, but that designation lapsed in 2022.
This month, an application was registered by Wigan council in the name of Dr Olu Osaloni, based in Platt Bridge, to change the use of the building to a place of worship.
Proposed Use and Community Benefits
The applicant described the transition as 'focusing on community continuity, inclusion, and enhanced civic value'. A planning statement supporting the plans said: "While the building has historically served the local area as a licensed social club, changing socio-economic trends have led to a decline in its usage, threatening its long-term viability.
"This proposal seeks to safeguard the building's status by transitioning the space into a place of worship. The applicant will revitalize the site, ensuring it remains a vibrant, inclusive, and financially sustainable anchor for the local community."
The application said the new use would create roles for 11 part-time volunteer staff. Proposed opening hours would be 9am-3pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with the building also open from 6pm-8pm on Wednesdays, 6pm-8pm on Saturdays and 10am-2pm on Sundays.
The statement added: "A modern place of worship functions as far more than a space for religious services. It acts as a holistic community hub that addresses diverse local needs.
"The applicant intends to utilise the space for a wide range of secular and community-focused initiatives."
Previous Development Plans and Decision
In November 2024, developer Ainscough Hughes Ltd won approval in principle to knock down the club and build 16 new apartments, but that work has not proceeded.
Wigan planners will decide on the change of use application in the coming weeks.
