A PLAN to convert the vacant and redundant Gaisgill Methodist Chapel, near Tebay, into a four-bedroom house has failed to win the backing of planners.

Members of Eden District Council's planning committee voted against the scheme, which had been proposed by the Methodist Church's Appleby, Kirkby Stephen and Tebay Circuit. Officers said that the scheme went against policy.

Plans for a two-storey extension to form improved toilets and a kitchen, with bedrooms above, at The New Inn, Hoff, near Appleby, can go ahead. Committee members approved the plans, which were put forward by Mr D. Mitchell.

An application for a new house in part of the garden at 48 Boroughgate, Appleby, for Mr and Mrs Charles Hirst, was deferred for a site visit.