A DECISION on the future of a historic church has been delayed.

Bolton Council’s planning committee was expected to debate plans to convert the vacant Tottington Road Methodist Church, in Harwood, into three townhouse-like properties yesterday.

Developer Ashdale Construction is also proposing to build a further six detached homes around the church.

However, the application was deferred yesterday at the request of the applicant.

Tottington Road Methodist Church closed in 2009, following a merger with Longsight Methodist Church. The sale of the church, which dates back to 1890, will help to fund the building of a new multi-purpose community centre in Longsight.

The house-building proposals do not include the church’s graveyard, which will continue to be maintained by Harwood Methodist Church.

The redevelopment of the Longsight facility — which will include a contemporary worship area, café, meeting rooms and community hall — was approved last year.