Plans to turn St Mary’s church into an arts venue have been given the green light by the diocese’s planning department.

Building work cannot start for at least another two months until a full agreement is granted, likely to be at the end of this month.

Staunch opponent Chris Cooper, who lives in the Church Yard, said he now plans to take his fight to the government because of what he says is a waste of taxpayer’s money.

He said: “The £1.2 million promised by Ashford’s Future is taxpayer’s money and at a time when the government is cutting back we think this is something they should consider axing.

“We plan to take our fight to Westminster to try and stop this happening.”

The project will cost £1.7 million, including £1.2 million of Growth Area Funding from Ashford’s Future. This money however could be in doubt depending on the government’s emergency budget on June 22.

Following a planning meeting presided over by the commissary general Richard Walker last month Mr Walker issued his findings saying: “In short I am satisfied by the petitioners that they have proved a necessity for the entirety of the works proposed as being necessary for the pastoral well-being of the parish.

“I am further satisfied that these works will probably not adversely affect the character of this church as a building of special architectural and historical interest.”

The plan is to turn the church into a music, drama and arts venue with seating for up to 350 people. It will mean many of the pews will have to be ripped out to make room for the changes.

Churchwarden Robert Blount said: “Replacing the nave pews, platforms and bulky old cast-iron pipes, will improve it for our worship. These measures, together with much needed improvements to toilets and kitchen facilities, will also transform the space for the range of arts events that are part of our fine tradition.”

If funding is successful building work could start at the end of July.