A former video store in Portadown could be converted into a church.
The old Xtravision store, at the Meadows Retail Park in the town, has been vacant for some time now.
But it could be given a new lease of life if plans are approved to convert it into a new ‘worship room’.
An application to redevelop the site – at a cost in excess of £280,000, it is understood – has been submitted by the Open Arms Church.
It is asking Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council to give its blessing to plans for a worship room capable of accommodating close to 160 people.
It would also include three children’s and multi-use rooms, as well as toilet provision.
The premises – in excess of 4000 sq ft – is at Unit 2, one of four outlets at the Meadows Retail Park, adjacent to the Meadows Shopping Centre and recently redeveloped McDonalds.
The Open Arms Church is currently located at Portmore Street in the town.
It was formed in February 2015, with a group of around 25 people who aimed to “reach out to all people from all backgrounds and situations”.
Described as an evangelical church, the Open Arms website explains: “We have a heart especially for those who were broken, hurting, disillusioned and who needed a safe place to worship and grow in God.”
The plans for the development will be publicly advertised next week and a decision expected from council shortly.
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