Church approved for former curtains and blinds shop

A former curtains and blinds shop is to be turned into a church after plans were given the green light.

Leeds City Council approved a planning application by Christian organisation RCCG Power Connections for the premises on Tong Road in Wortley.

Under the plans, Sunday services will be held at the site, along with youth clubs and educational events.

Documents submitted to the council said: "The provision of a place of worship delivers significant social benefits and directly supports the creation of healthy, inclusive and cohesive communities."

The site comprises a two-storey building and a large car park accessed via both Tong Road and Wortley Moor Road, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

No external alterations are planned for the existing building, a planning report said.

Plans include a kitchen, reception area, children's classrooms and a meeting space for teenagers.

Members of the congregation, which includes students and young adults, would travel to the church venue in minibuses, the report said.

Some services would take place on Wednesday evenings and a youth club would be held on the last Friday of the month.

"These uses contribute to social inclusion, support young people and provide opportunities for community interaction in a safe and managed environment," documents said.

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