The historic former Providence Place Chapel in Cleckheaton could be transformed into a conference and exhibition centre and restaurant.

The present owner, builder Tom Senior, 65, has revealed an unnamed businessman is planning to buy the huge Grade II-listed building in Bradford Road.

He said: "We have agreed on a price for the building but I can't say what that is or name the buyer yet.

"We are in the process of sorting out the legal agreement. I don't know how long this will take.

"The property already has planning permission from Kirklees Council for two floors to be used as a dance hall, nightclub and restaurant.''

Keith Joplin, president of Spenborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said: "We will be delighted if the scheme goes ahead because it falls in line with our vision of how the town should be developed.

"We have always felt the chapel played an important part in our Heartbeat Project because it is such a dominant building.

"It is the first building people see as they come into Cleckheaton off the motorway.''

The Sanctuary House of Praise, a Pentecostal church with a small congregation, has been using part of the building for worship since last March when it had been derelict for six years.

The members had hoped to raise £250,000 to buy it with National Lottery money but the bid was turned down.

Mr Senior bought the building for £170,000 six years ago and originally planned to turn into an 800-capacity nightclub. But he was refused a drinks licence after protests from residents and the police.

Since then proposals to turn the church into a dance hall, wine bar and health studio have collapsed, to Mr Senior's frustration. He has spent £60,000 on repairs.

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