Burghead Parish Church, which closed on December 31 last year under the Church of Scotland’s controversial cost-saving programme, has stood empty for more than a year.

Scotmid, the co-operative retailer, lodged proposals in February to transform the building, promising a “more accessible and spacious” store than its current smaller premises in the town.

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Chief executive Karen Scott said the move reflected Scotmid’s commitment to Moray: “By relocating to a more accessible and spacious site, we will be able to enhance the shopping experience for our customers, while preserving the character of this historic building.”

The development is said to create new local jobs and keep the co-op present in Burghead.

The church’s story stretches back to 1823, when Burghead’s first chapel of ease to Duffus Kirk was built to serve the growing fishing village. The present structure, designed by “Mr Anderson of Hopeman”, opened in 1861 as the United Free Church.

It retains several features including stained glass by Father Giles Connacher of Pluscarden Abbey, a gallery added in 1908, and a bell carried over from the original chapel. Its closure at the end of 2023 was part of a sweeping reduction of parishes across Scotland.

Objections focused on parking, traffic safety near the local school, and potential antisocial behaviour.

One local resident said: “Could a pedestrian crossing be installed on Grant Street by the school to slow down traffic and enhance safety?”

Another called for CCTV to be installed: “We are concerned about a potential increase in antisocial behaviour. Keeping the Co-op in the village is important, but more detailed plans are needed to address safety.”