Villagers in Wilsden fear plans to convert a derelict chapel into apartments will mean the loss of green space.

Chapel owner Noel McGurgh plans to transform Main Street's Methodist chapel into 11 one- to three-bedroom apartments.

But the long-awaited scheme has angered residents in Crack Lane as the car park planned for the development is earmarked for a small green on the corner of Crack Lane and Main Street.

Sharon Walker, of Crack Lane, said she was worried about the effect that extra cars would have on a busy junction.

"The junction is on a hill and this is a very busy cut-through at peak times," said the mother-of-two.

"We're glad the building is going to be done up but the safety issues need to be looked at."

Pensioner Betty Ward said losing the green would also mean losing the path.

"There's no footpath along that section of Crack Lane and we cut across the green on the corner to get to Main Street," she said.

"I can see the green from my house. If it goes, the last piece of greenery in Main Street will be gone."

The Grade II listed building was bought in 2000 by Mr McGurgh, who specialises in barn conversions.

He said he was negotiating with Bradford Council to buy the land, of which part would be kept as gardens.

"The development is long overdue and I'm willing to talk to residents about their concerns," he said.

Councillor Simon Cooke (Con, Bingley rural) said he was delighted to see something being done with the chapel.

"It's a prominent building in the village and people will be delighted to see it re-developed," he said. "But I am concerned about the impact it will have.

"Its development will enhance the village greatly but the finer points need to be dealt with sensitively." Pictured are Nick Walker, his three-year-old son Laurance and resident James Newton, making their views on the plan clear.