A 'DULL and anonymous' church wants to build a small extension to create a more welcoming entrance and activity space.

Didcot Baptist Church has applied for planning permission to redevelop its building in Wantage Road.

Under the plans, the front of the existing property would be extended to create an area which could be used for church and community activities.

The new frontage would be more transparent, allowing people to see what is going on inside.

A coffee morning which currently takes place at the back of the church would be moved as part of the project.

A current 1980s extension which comprises of several small rooms located off a dark internal corridor would be updated, allowing in more natural light and making these spaces more open plan and flexible.

It comes after a five year process held by the church, looking at its future.

Several options were considered including relocation and full redevelopment before the partial redevelopment project was decided upon.

Architects Cater Jonas, who worked on the Didcot Civic Hall, have been commissioned to draw up detailed designs.

It is hoped the changes will transform what has been described as a ‘somewhat dull and anonymous’ looking building into something more open, welcoming and visible.

To comment on the application search for P18/S3535/FUL on the South Oxfordshire District Council website.