New £5m church development approved

A £5 million plan to redevelop Newbury Baptist Church has been approved by West Berkshire Council.

The scheme, submitted by Arrow Planning in November 2019 and designed by Edgington Spink & Hyne, involves demolition of the current buildings, apart from the church hall, to make way for a new community hub.

The building, some of which dates from the 1930s, is close to the Market Street redevelopment site and the new building is intended to serve the new community. However it is likely to be delayed due to the pandemic.

The new church will include a lounge area with coffee shop, a multi-purpose area, eight meeting rooms and office space.

Mark Schmull, director of Arrow Planning, said: “We are delighted to obtain a delegated planning permission for this important community focused development, working positively and constructively with officers at West Berkshire Council.

“The timing of the permission couldn’t be better for the community, providing good news in what has been a challenging time for many. We are looking forward to seeing the project move forward now.”