COLEFORD St John the Evangelist Church, which has been closed for five years, has now been put on the open market by Gloucester Diocese for an asking price of £500,000.

The Victorian building with its ornate interior was the subject of a vigorous ‘save it’ campaign by the Friends of St John’s Church.

The supporters claimed the church authorities’ £1.8million estimate for the cost of essential repairs was grossly exaggerated and that £30,000 was more realistic.

However, they lost the battle and a valedictory service was held in the grounds of the church on September 30 last year as it formally closed as a place of worship.

However the Diocese is adamant that the building’s religious and architectural heritage should be protected and are placing strict conditions on the sale.

The sale of the 137-year old building is being handled by estate agent Kevin Toombs who says interested parties must submit a business plan showing how they intend to give the building a sustainable future.

Any submissions must conform to guidelines laid down by the Prince’s Regeneration Trust and the Churches Conservation Trust and the final decision will be made by the Diocese of Gloucester and the Church Commissioners.

A spokesman for Gloucester diocese said: “Following the formal closure of St John’s in autumn 2016, the Diocese of Gloucester and the Church Commissioners have instructed agents to market the building and its site, with a view to trying to find an appropriate new user.

“This forms part of the formal ‘use seeking period’ which we are required to carry out before a final sale can be progressed.

“We hope that a suitable person or group can be found who is willing to invest time and enthusiasm into this landmark building, to give it a sustainable, long-term future.”

A member of the Friends of St John’s Church said: “I can’t see how anyone would want to buy it with these conditions in force.”