It might not seem the likeliest of places, but a building on the London Road Trading Estate could be transformed into a place of worship.

A planning application has been submitted to Swale council for a change of use to unit A so the building can become a church.

The provision of 27 parking spaces is also included.

The church that aims to occupy the building in London Road, Sittingbourne, which has been vacant for nearly five years, is called the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Covenant of Love Chapel.

There is one minster who works part time and no other permanent members of staff.

The rest of the church’s activities are supported by volunteers.

In its proposal, the church explains that the vast majority of its congregation live in the town, with only a few coming from places further afield, such as Medway, Sheppey and Ramsgate.

The applications says: “Because the bulk of the congregation lives locally the use of this centrally located site by the church would offer the opportunity to travel by public transport, walking and cycling.

“The church already arranges car sharing by offering lifts, and it is proposed that this would be expanded in the new premises.”

Members currently meet at the UKP Leisure Club, Avenue of Remembrance, Sittingbourne, on Sundays between 10.30am and 12.45pm. Prayer meetings are every Monday at 7.30pm at 23 Adisham Green, Kemsley.

If approved, most of the church’s activities would take place be on Sundays, with some services on Friday evenings and at Christian festivals such as Easter and Christmas.

The church, which is based on a philosophy of outreach and support within the local community, will also provide counselling sessions to town residents during the week.

The application adds: “This may include those on low incomes, with family difficulties or with mental health and addiction problems.

“A programme of education for children within the congregation will be provided, including the usual Sunday school classes.”

Individual meeting rooms for one-to-one sessions would be provided on the first floor and the area above for larger meetings plus the Sunday classes.

To see the application in full, visit http://pa.midkent.gov.uk/online-applications/ and search for 14/503761/FULL