A MULTI-MILLION-POUND extension to a Hampshire church will start in March next year following approval by civic chiefs.

Locks Heath Free Church based in Locks Heath near Fareham will start construction on its new £4.65m extension after the landowners, Hampshire County Council, approved the plans following a number of discussions on how the land could be used by the church.

Under the plans, the extension, which is entirely self-funded by the church, will see a larger activity hall to host more community activities, a coffee shop and a community-friendly space for concerts, outreach events and services such as debt advice, food bank, addiction recovery and job clubs.

The extension will also allow the church to accommodate 800-1,000 worshippers to come through the doors every week.

The church has been fundraising for ten years to make the project a reality mainly through donations by the church community along with grants of £40,000 from Fareham Borough Council and £46,500 from the Allchurches Trust.

Councillor Roy Perry, leader of Hampshire County Council, said: “We were happy to help in this situation, working with Fareham Borough Council and Locks Heath Free Church to help them break ground on this worthwhile project to build new community facilities - especially after such a great fundraising effort by the church’s congregation.

"We wish them well and look forward to seeing the new building when it’s complete."

Councillor Seán Woodward, leader of Fareham Borough Council, added: “I am delighted that this major community project is moving closer to fruition.

"This is an example of great partnership working between Fareham Borough Council and Hampshire County Council to achieve a positive outcome for residents, especially those in the congregation led by the Senior Minister Mark Madavan, who have devoted themselves to achieving such a huge mission.

"Locks Heath Free Church welcomes nearly 800 people through their doors each and every week and with this expansion it will be in a position to play an even greater role in our community.” 

Mark Madavan, senior minister of Locks Heath Free Church, added: "I am thankful for the support, encouragement and generosity of both Fareham Borough Council and Hampshire County Council regarding our church's building project.

"I am convinced that this significant community and church facility will enrich and enhance the local community and individual lives.

"When we work together, partner together, are generous together, we make a greater difference.

"I wish to personally thank the leader of Fareham Borough Council, Councillor Seán Woodward, for his help and backing throughout the years, and to thank the leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Roy Perry, for personally intervening to help this project."

Locks Heath Free Church was founded 113 years ago as Locks Heath congregational church and moved to it’s present site on Hunts Pond Road in 1989.

The church offers clubs and activities for primary school children ranging from crafts to sports as well as offering parenting and marriage preparation and enrichment classes.