ALTERATIONS to a former Methodist Chapel in Wheddon Cross to improve its energy efficiency have been approved by Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA).

Owners Richard and Nicola Kemp can now add an extra upstairs room, remove failing leaded coloured glass in side windows, and install solar panels on the roof.

The chapel was given planning permission for conversion to a two-bedroom ‘local needs’ home in 2009, and a third bedroom was later allowed.

Mr Kemp said at present the old chapel was poorly rated for its energy efficiency, which left it ‘un-mortgageable’ and meant it could not be sold or rented.

ENPA planning officer Chris Tivey said the proposed work would raise the property’s energy performance certificate rating without harming the character or appearance of the attractive stone and slate building.

Mr Tivey said the salvaged coloured panes of glass could be used for repairs to the much more prominent leaded light windows on the front of the building.