A historic city church which dates back roughly a thousand years could soon become an auction house for art, antiques and collectables.

The application, put forward by Mander Auctioneers and Valuers of Norwich, to change St Mary Coslany Church in Oak Street, into an auction house.

It would look to use the Grade I listed site to "hold regular auctions of art, antiques, collectables, jewellery and other similar items".

St Mary Coslany Church, in Oak Street, near Junkyard MarketSt Mary Coslany Church, in Oak Street, near Junkyard Market (Image: Newsquest)

The church is also said to be "in an excellent location" and within walking distance of the city centre but outside of the more pedestrianised areas of the city. It also has ample parking nearby.

According to the application there would be one auction per month held on site, between 9am and 5.30pm.

There would also be "valuations, consignment and collections on an appointment basis during office hours and Saturdays".

The site was previously a book shop until 2022The site was previously a book shop until 2022 (Image: Norwich Historic Churches Trust)

The site was previously a book shop until 2022, after being used as an antiques market.

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The church, next to the city's Junkyard Market, has had a chequered history, having fallen into disrepair and being restored several times. 

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It was declared redundant as a church in 1971 and was later taken over by a craft and design centre and more recently a publishing services company and internet bookseller. 

The church is currently abandonedThe church is currently abandoned (Image: Norwich Historic Churches Trust)

St Mary is the last surviving medieval round-towered church in the city after others were destroyed by bombing in the Second World War.

It has existed since the early 11th century and was rebuilt in the 15th century with extensive restoration in the early 1900s.

Those wishing to comment on the new application have until August 30, with an internal recommendation date by the case officer of September 30.

St Mary Coslany Church has existed since the early 11th centurySt Mary Coslany Church has existed since the early 11th century (Image: Newsquest)