INDUSTRIAL buildings in Oswaldtwistle could be converted to form a place of worship if a planning application goes through tomorrow.

Oswaldtwistle Community Church, currently based in York Street, Church, and Harvey Street Community Centre, has applied to Hyndburn Council for permission to convert three industrial units in Watson Street.

The buildings are now used by S G Aluminium which is re-ocating to larger premises and the community church, which has outgrown its premises, has been looking for a suitable building for some time.

A report by Brent Clarkson, head of planning at Hyndburn Borough Council, says planning permission is sought to convert offices and three connected units to form a church, offices, meeting rooms, kitchen and toilet facilities.

The main function of the building would be as a place of worship but Oswaldtwistle Community Church is also involved in many community projects which would also operate from the premises.

These include a parents and toddlers group, social events, discussion groups, youth clubs, a toy library, providing meals for the disadvantaged and after-school clubs.

Mr Clarkson said the issues to consider in determining the application related to loss of industrial premises, the impact of the proposal on residential amenity and parking and highway issues.

But said: "I consider that there are no insurmountable objections to the proposed change of use in terms of policy, highways and impact. In view of the overriding community benefits to be derived from the proposed use I recommend approval."

If the conversion goes ahead the number of car parking spaces would be increased from 36 to 50 including three for disabled parking.

The completed church would seat around 274 people and require 57 staff plus volunteers to run the facilities.