Former factory to be transformed into church

A planning application to convert a former factory on an industrial estate in Exeter into a place of worship has been submitted.

The Elim Trust Corporation said it wants to give the Stanley Security unit at Signal House on the Marsh Barton industrial estate a new lease of life.

It is proposed Rediscover Church, established in Exeter in 1928, will run the new church.

The church moved to the former Matalan store at Haven Banks in 2024 as a "pop-up facility" and has been seeking a permanent site for eight years.

The plans include an auditorium, cafe, kitchen and meeting spaces inside the new church as well as a youth centre on the first floor, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The application said: "This service is of immense value to the local community and has proven to be successful at the Haven Banks pop up facility.

"It would enable Rediscover Church to create a much-sought permanent home at the premises, allowing them to continue their invaluable work for their congregation and the wider community.

"The proposed development would represent an efficient use of soon-to-be vacant premises, delivering a use compatible with the wider business park, and one which will generate jobs and opportunities beyond that of its current use."

Exeter City Council said a determination date was due on 17 February 2026.

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