PLANS to turn the former Methodist Church in High Road, North Weald, into office space are being opposed by the parish council amid concerns over parking issues.

The parish council had previously objected to a change of use application – which was rejected by Epping Forest District Council – because the applicant had not been specific regarding what the exact intended use would be.

A new application is seeking approval for use as offices for a “professional services company”.

The parish council’s planning committee has expressed concern over vehicles exiting onto the High Road by the pedestrian crossing, and concerns that the offices could be sub-let, increasing the number of people, and vehicles, using the site.

Councillors voiced concern over the absence of evidence having been provided by the applicant that sufficient parking could be provided.

Parish council vice-chairman councillor Shirley Hawkins said: “I just think it’s a shame what they are turning it into. They could have made better use of that (former church building).”