PLANS have been submitted by Aberystwyth University and St Michael’s Church to redevelop part of the church’s car park as part of the multi-million pound Old College revamp.

The plans to convert part of the church’s car park into 30 spaces to be used by the university is one of the conditions attached to the planning permission granted for the ambitious project, over fears of a lack of parking space around the Grade I listed building.

The project cannot go ahead without an agreement and plans in place for the extra car parking capacity, planning documents outline.

The submitted scheme will see 30 spaces created, along with new access and hard-standing.

Planning documents said: “A major National Lottery Heritage Funded project to transform the adjacent Old College building into a vibrant heritage and cultural centre will see the Grade I listed building move from an under occupied and outdated teaching facility into an exhibition centre, place of learning and discovery, and a hub for creative business start-ups.

“As such, pressure on parking is likely to be at a premium and Aberystwyth University have approached the church with a view to leasing church car park spaces for dedicated use by Old College hotel guests.

“The car park represents a major source of revenue for the church which assists both its fabric maintenance and pastoral activities.

“The guaranteed revenue that will be generated by the lease arrangement will be welcome.

“With funding available from the university, the church has the opportunity to make significant improvements to the existing car park, both to provide dedicated spaces for Old College and to maintain existing spaces for parishioners attending services and the general public who pay to use the car park at other times.

The proposals will create improved surfaces that benefit the setting of the church, and improves physical access, particularly to those who are mobility impaired.”

It is hoped the building will reopen in 2023.