A CHURCH which is being built in a former nightclub and buffet could soon be opening its doors.

World Mission Agency, known as Winners Chapel International, received planning permission from Colchester Council to overhaul the old Embassy Suite, in Balkerne Hill, in February 2021.

The church, based in Dartford, Kent, wants to redevelop the premises which could accommodate more than 160 adults and children.

Yet since the proposal was given the green light, the site’s doors have remained closed.

However, new applications have now been submitted to Colchester Council asking for permission to install four signs at the site suggesting suggesting the church could open imminently.

The plans outline when work is complete a children’s church will be created downstairs along with new toilet facilities and offices.

The first floor would house a youth church and main auditorium with an elevated alter, while on the top floor there would be further toilets and offices.

 

Plans - the former Embassy Suite, in Balkerne Hill, Colchester, could look like this under new proposals to turn it into a church

Plans - the former Embassy Suite, in Balkerne Hill, Colchester, could look like this under new proposals to turn it into a church

 

The most recent published planning report voiced concerns about social distancing and how the church would accommodate this.

The report states: “The premises is proposed to accommodate 100 to 120 adults, 12 to 15 youths and 40 children between zero and 12 years.

“However, the design has been influenced by the current social distancing requirement of two metres between two people of different households.

“There will, therefore, be a need to restrict the number of people attending weekly as well as Sunday services to comply with the current legislation.

“The proposal is to have two to three services to allow fewer people at any time into the building.”

Services have been pencilled in to take place between 8am and 1pm on Sundays, and between 6pm and 8.30pm on Wednesdays.

Special sessions would also be held on a monthly basis and special occasions such as New Year.

Winners Chapel International has been contacted for comment but had not responded by the time of going to press.

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