A landmark former school building in Yorkshire could be transformed into a place of worship and community hub with a food bank.

The planning application has been made after previous student house in multiple occupation (HMO) plans were thrown out.

The former Hull Grammar School site, on Cottingham Road, is earmarked for a new church, complete with offices, youth clubs, a children’s room, and space for music classes.

The specific religious group or denomination behind the proposals has not yet been named in public council documents.

The site of former Hull Grammar School was earmarked for student accommodation, but could now become a place of worship if plans are given the green light.

placeholder image — The site of former Hull Grammar School was earmarked for student accommodation, but could now become a place of worship if plans are given the green light.

London-based planning consultants Studio Charette have submitted the scheme to Hull City Council, confirming that no extensions or external alterations will be made to the prominent building.

The new layout would feature a main church hall, fellowship hall, training rooms, and community facilities on the ground floor, alongside further meeting rooms and teaching spaces upstairs.

Planning documents state: “The principal use will be religious worship, with the remaining accommodation supporting the wider pastoral, educational, charitable and community work undertaken from the premises.”

Organisers also intend to run a food bank from the premises, describing it as a ‘charitable community service’ complementary to the site’s wider community functions.

A HMO plan for the site has already been turned down

The proposals follow the rejection of controversial plans to convert the property into a large HMO. The Secretary of State subsequently dismissed an appeal by the previous developer to push through the student housing project.

The shift in direction has been welcomed by Cllr Peter North (Independent – Bricknell ward) who believes the plan for a space of worship and community use feels more appropriate for local communities.

“I’m delighted the Secretary of State dismissed the former applicant’s appeal against the decision taken by Hull City Council to refuse planning permission for a huge student HMO so close to residential properties and with restricted access from Cottingham Road,” he said.

“I want to thank all residents and neighbours for joining me in resisting those plans. This new application appears to be a much more appropriate use for the premises and I look forward to speaking with residents about their views over coming weeks.”

The site was originally operated by Marist College before serving as Hull Grammar School until 2005, later hosting various commercial uses.

Sitting within the Newland Conservation Area, planners argue the existing classrooms and halls are ‘inherently capable’ of being adapted without harming the building’s historic character.

Public consultation on the plans is now open. Residents have until November 18 to submit comments or lodge objections via Hull City Council’s online planning portal.

There has been a growth in Pentecostal fellowships around the Beverley Road area over recent years, with new global students and international NHS healthcare workers fuelling demand for church services.