CORNWALL Council has announced that a derelict Cornish chapel based in the middle of a cemetery is being put up for rent.

The chapel based in Helston Cemetery on Meneage Road has been left empty and unused for several years.

Recently, the building has been targeted by vandals who have smashed the outside windows of the chapel, leaving glass on the floor of the chapel.  

Falmouth Packet: The chapel still has original features The chapel still has original features (Image: Cornwall Council)

The "stand-alone" chapel in the middle of the graveyard was built in the early 1900s and still has many of its original features, including a pitch slate tiled roof.

READ NEXT: 

Burials in the cemetery still take place and there are also hundreds of graves including those of well-known Helston locals and people who died in the First and Second World Wars.

Falmouth Packet: Helston Cemetery Chapel Helston Cemetery Chapel (Image: Cornwall Council)

However, Cornwall Council has now revealed that the chapel, among others in Cornwall, is being put forward to be leased. 

The building will require extensive repair work and redecoration.

A rent-free period will be offered instead of the anticipated work. Due to the lack of space for parking on the grounds, a space will be made available for a limited amount of parking.

The ongoing tenant will also be responsible for a contribution towards the landlord's legal fees.

A rental cost for the chapel will be negotiated between Cornwall Council and the tenant. 

A leaflet from the council regarding the lease opportunity states: "Any use will be considered that is complimentary to the site, subject to landlord's approval and obtaining any required planning permission for the change of use."

The property is connected to electricity, water, and drainage supplies, and a single toilet block is available on the cemetery grounds.

As the building is located within a conservation site, additional permissions will be required for any work.

Falmouth Packet: The lease plan for the chapel The lease plan for the chapel (Image: Cornwall Council)

Interested parties are advised to make their own enquiries from the Valuation Office Agency website (www.voa.gov.uk) and also look into whether business rates would be payable. 

Viewing open days for people interested in the chapel will be held on September 25, 2023, between 10am and 12pm and October 10, 2023, between 2pm and 3pm.

Anyone interested in leasing the chapel can contact Cornwall Council on 01872 322000.