New church centre

Rother officers have in principle supported the application to convert a Holliers Hill house, acquired by Christchurch Methodist Church, into a community building for meetings, events and young peoples' groups.

Councillors will make a decision at the next planning committee meeting on Thursday.

The plan would require minimal alterations to the building, with some demolition of the attached garden required.

The scheme has received six letters of support and two objecting. One writer was concerned the centre "will be used for counselling drug users."

The Highways Authority recommended refusal due to poor visibility and inadequate turning and parking facilities.

In his report to members chief planning officer Frank Rallings said: "Nonetheless on the strength of the information provided I am minded to accept that, provided the amended plan is received showing the proposed parking/turning area in the front garden deleted, retention of the existing access would be acceptable.

"With regard to the proposed use of the building itself, I am mindful of the fact that, because the facility would be run by and in association with the adjoining church, they would be able to control the use in a manner that does not cause harm to the local residential amenity."