GROWING demand for its services is set to see a Northwich Buddhist centre move to a new home in the town.

The Odiyana Kadampa Buddhist Centre has been in the town for almost 17 years, and is currently based in Chester Road after moving from Witton Park in Northwich.

The centre is looking to move again, this time to Whitehall, a grade two listed building in School Lane, Hartford, which is empty and was last used as a business and conference centre.

Planning permission is being sought by the centre from Cheshire West and Chester Council to change the use of the building, which dates back to 1835, into a Buddhist residential college and training centre.

“Due to an increase in the number of our members and demand for our services from local residents we once again have outgrown our present centre, and are looking to relocate to Whitehall in School Lane,” said a planning statement accompanying the application.

The aim of the proposed centre is to provide teaching and meditation classes, provide residential accommodation for people who would like to live in a Buddhist community, provide a place of worship and an education resource and to train meditation teachers and start new classes across Cheshire.

“In purchasing Whitehall we understand that with its grade two listing comes a responsibility to maintain, care and improve the buildings and grounds that surround them so as to preserve the unique history of Whitehall and its significance as an example of late Georgian architecture,” said the planning statement.

“Though at present we are not applying for any permission for work on the stable and garage buildings, which are in a poor state of decline, our hope is to renovate and breathe new life into these at some point in the near future.

“Other than the general upkeep of the grounds and gardens as they are at present we have no plans to change or adapt these, understanding the historic significance, particularly of the lawned area to the south of the villa.

“We understand that as former council offices Whitehall has some communal value for the people of the area.

“As an organisation that opens its doors to all members of the public the historic features and beauty of the building would be available for all to enjoy.”

No external changes are planned to the building, and the 33 parking spaces would be retained.