PLANS for a new vicarage at Christ Church have been unveiled with the new building set to replace the listed building that has been there since 1840.

It appears the listed Victorian rectory will remain in place, but will no longer be used as a home for Christ Church's vicar.

According to planning documents: "The replacement vicarage has been designed to be subservient to the original vicarage.

"The adopted architectural style reflects some elements from the Victorian period but to be executed in a contemporary manner."

The application has been made by the Diocese of Liverpool for the church on Station Road South, Padgate.

In addition to the new two storey vicarage, it proposes partial demolition of the existing boundary to allow for better access by car.

Four car parking spaces will also be provided for the use of visitors to the churchyard.

The plans have been submitted because the diocese says maintenance for the old vicarage is too expensive.

"The ongoing liabilities associated with maintenance and upkeep place an unsustainable financial burden upon the church and incumbent," said the report.

"The diocese is responsible for maintenance of the structure, with the incumbent responsible for such matters as heating and internal upkeep and gardening.

"The Parsonage Design Guide states where the continued upkeep of a particular house imposes a disproportionate burden on a diocese’s financial resources and perhaps is prohibitively expensive for the parson to furnish, decorate, heat, light and clean, it will be right to consider replacing it.”

A new vicarage can 'easily be accommodated' without compromising the existing house', meaning the plans are likely to be approved.

The development will take place close to the church, and it is thought it will help provide better security for the church, as it will remain in clear view.