A WORKS building which has stood empty for seven years will be converted into a church, if Warrington planners give the go-ahead.
The building – comprising two light industrial/warehousing units built 27 years ago – is wanted as a place of worship for Oasis Warrington, a Christian church established less than two years ago, which has a growing congregation of around 120.
It stands in Europa Boulevard, Westbrook, its own grounds within the Gemini Business Park, with parking for 50 vehicles.
A small number of staff would work from the building during the day.
Previous proposals to convert the building into car showrooms and a restaurant had been thrown out.
The plan is strongly opposed by Burtonwood and Westbrook Parish Council and 10 nearby residents.
They are worried about evening and weekend use of the building, noise, traffic and parking issues and public amenity issues.
But two nearby residents support the scheme on the grounds it will have a positive impact on the community.
Planning officers are recommending the scheme be approved and say the development would not act as a precedent for clubs, restaurants, etc.
Oasis Warrington has been holding services and meetings at the Pyramid, in Warrington and at Penketh High School.
But they say they need a permanent home as the congregation is likely to increase in size.
