'Legal complications' have scuppered plans to turn a disused historic Isle of Wight church into a cafe and bar.

Hospitality chain Loungers UK had wanted to invest more than £1 million to convert the former Cowes Methodist Church into a food and drink venue, akin to its Correo Lounge site in Newport.

While many residents backed the plans, some questioned the location and raised concerns over noise.

Loungers said despite a licensing application being granted at a recent committee hearing and a planning application being submitted, it is no longer able to proceed.

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It cited 'legal complications' as the reason.

Alex Kalebic, head of acquisitions, Loungers, said: “We are incredibly disappointed but these legal complications just don’t make it possible for us to risk investing over £1m to open a Lounge on this site. 

"We were excited about saving this beautiful historic building from falling further into disrepair and bringing it back to life for all to enjoy, as well as creating much needed employment for local people.

“Whilst a small number of local residents opposed the development, we were very grateful for the otherwise overwhelmingly positive support from the Cowes and wider Isle of Wight community.

"Rest assured; we are still keen to open a sister site to our popular Correo Lounge in Newport in this wonderful town at some point in the future and continue to look for other opportunities across the Isle of Wight as well.”

Cowes Methodist Church ceased being used for religious purposes around 2020 and, since then, the property has only been used occasionally for events and rehearsals.