PARKING proved a sticking point for Chipping Norton Town Council when discussing plans to convert part of a church into apartments.

West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC) is considering plans for renovations and alterations to Chipping Norton Baptist Church, in New Street, to retain the church use at ground floor in the main building along with a new mezzanine level.

The proposals include alterations and conversion of the remainder to create eight two-bedroom apartments.

But discussing the plans on Monday night, councillors felt the lack of parking was a real problem.

“I think we have to go back to WODC and tell them they can’t approve this without any car parking spaces,” said Cllr Tysoe.

“I’ve got no objection to the redevelopment. I think it’s great they are going to perhaps remove an eyesore from the town but we can’t have the area without the parking.

“It’s just ridiculous.”