PERMISSION is being sought to remove the pews from the historic Old West Kirk building in Greenock.
The A-listed structure on the corner of the Esplanade and Campbell Street dates from the 16th century and was bought from the Church of Scotland by businessman Marco Medinelli in 2022.
A listed building application has been made to Inverclyde planners asking for approval to remove most of the pews from the main sanctuary. The stage would also be removed and more toilets would be installed.
The use of the building is listed in the application as being for occasional events.
The adjacent Pirrie Hall, which was also sold to Mr Medinelli, is now used by Inverclyde Vineyard Church for its worship services.
