Historic chapel could be transformed into VR and computer lab hub for college kids

Historic chapel could be transformed into VR and computer lab hub for college kids

A Grade II listed building in Middleton could soon be converted into a high-tech engineering facility for the local college – complete with a virtual reality suite.

The historic Milnrow Chapel sits within the campus of Hopwood Hall College, who are hoping to convert the building into classrooms. Planning papers suggest this would provide teaching space for their engineering and manufacturing T-Levels curriculum.

If plans are approved by Rochdale Council’s planning committee, the inside of the chapel will be converted into four new classrooms/computer labs; a virtual reality suite; two staff offices; as well as server rooms and toilet accommodation.

Repair and maintenance works would also take place on the exterior of the building to bring it back to its former glory.

Milnrow Chapel was originally designed as a place of worship but was deconsecrated in the 1990s. It was previously converted by the college for use as a venue for exams, as a fitness centre and for other sports use.

It is currently used as a storage facility. Planning papers read: “The chapel is considered as an important local landmark but it has been underutilised for many years due to the issues of accessibility, thermal performance, presence of asbestos to the roof soffit and the need for significant investment to bring the building back into meaningful use.

“The college wishes to undertake works to convert the former chapel into a dedicated T-level engineering and virtual reality (VR) learning centre.

“This project will generate funding for the repair and restoration of the historic fabric, bringing the building back into long-term use as a central part of the college and safeguarding the future of this important heritage asset.”

Milnrow Chapel was originally designed as a place of worship for the De La Salle College in the 1960s to support the college community as the site continued to grow. It was constructed during an important period of reform for the Catholic Church following the introduction of the Liturgical Movement in the UK in the 1950s.

The site is located towards the north-west of the college grounds and elevated on a grassed bank with trees surrounding the site. An existing path leads from the north of the site towards the Grade II* listed Hopwood Hall.

George Lythgoe, local democracy reporter