A SOUTHAMPTON church is set for a major revamp to modernise its building and create a space fit for the wider community.

Leaders at Elim Christian Centre say parts of its building, in Park Road, Freemantle, are in “such a poor state it can no longer be used”.

But now builders will demolish the existing attached buildings to the rear of the church and replace them with improved facilities and a secure garden area.

The proposal, which was approved by planning officials at Southampton City Council, also includes the creation of meeting rooms, offices, unisex toilets, a kitchen, social areas and counselling rooms.

In the plan, the developer, Tyrrell Dowinton Associates, describe the church as being a “significant, though modest, landmark”.

It says that by knocking down the old buildings, which are in a poor condition, the new facilities will allow the church to be used other groups in the community.

In the application, the church said: “While the Elim Christian Centre is an active and thriving congregation, the activities that can take place within the existing property are severely limited by the run-down state of the property.

“The halls and rooms have been extended and repaired over many years and have now come to the end of their useful life.”

The church is often used by as many as 50 people on Sunday and boasts an array of activities for the public such as coffee mornings, drop-in and outreach sessions, as well as a creche for children.

Despite being approved there were some concerns.

Due to the high numbers using the church, some residents say parking may be an issue.

In a letter to council planners resident Alan Henderson, of Park Road, said: “The Christian Centre has limited parking and this could become a problem

for local residents with the proposed extra activities on the property.”