PLANS to transform a Droitwich church into a £200,000 community centre have been given a boost, thanks to a £10,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund.
The cash award, announced this week, will enable the church to carry out an architectural feasibility study, kick-starting the first phase of the project.
The building, located on the corner of Ombersley Street East and Winnetts Lane, is set to be rebranded as ‘The Olive Branch Community Centre’, providing a greater community area for the town.
Currently home to Droitwich Spa Foodbank, Weight Watchers, Boys Brigade and Girls Association, the estimated two-year project will see a large hall built for concerts, toddler groups, banquets and anything else the community needs it for.
With the concept of ‘Inspired by faith – Open to all’, there will also be a new function room suitable for community lunches, youth groups and other activities, as well as a meeting room, craft room and an extended lounge to the existing Olive Branch Coffee Shop.
The church currently has £40,000 thanks to a further grant from Wychavon Council and previous fund-raising efforts which will enable architect Marc Worrall to develop the plan further with local contractors.
Rev Ian Spence, said: “We are grateful for the initial funding which will move us a step further towards seeing our building open and available to more people in the town.
“We have enlisted the help of a fund-raiser who has been applying for grants and people will have an opportunity to contribute by popping into the coffee shop
“The plan is for the building to become a community hub – it is ideally located and community groups will be able to use the building at affordable rates.
“Droitwich Spa Baptist Church has worshipped at the building for over 100 years and I am excited for the future of this church and community project.”
Visit www.olive-branch.uk for more information.
