PLANS for a new £1 million church and community centre have been given the go-ahead.
A massive fundraising effort has been launched by New Life Church in Holywell after planning permission was granted by Flintshire Council.
Members of the congregation are looking to build a community facility incorporating a family friendly coffee shop with a children’s play area and an auditorium which could be used by performing arts groups.
Pastor Dan Morgan, who has been head of the church in Post Office Lane for more than six years, said: “We have got £300,000 in place through a conditional grant from the Welsh Government. We have to raise the rest of the funds before we can start the work.
“We are looking in the region of another £700,000.
“We are going to be applying for other grants. There could quite possibly be more community fundraising.”
The centre will offer services, support and activities to church-goers and members of the wider community.
Mr Morgan added: “This is about making a real difference to the community and helping local families in any way we can.
“There are quite a few organisations that would like to develop their work in Holywell and this will allow them to do that.”
Activities for non-church members – including a youth group, parents’ and toddlers’ group, coffee mornings and a kids’ club are already held at the site. The church
raised £40,000 to bring the plans to their current stage.
Mr Morgan said: “We are delighted about that.
“We raised the money through donations from people who want to see it happen.
“We are really grateful to those people who made it happen.”
It is also hoped the new facility could provide a boost to traders in Holywell and town centre manager Medwyn Roberts has praised the enthusiasm of those involved.
He said: “I think this is fantastic news. They have got good plans for young people and mothers and children. It has got to be good for the town.
“It is only 100 yards from the town centre and will bring more people in.”