Plans have been revealed for a building once home to a Wilko store.

An application has been submitted to Swale council for the vacant unit in Sittingbourne High Street to turn it into a church, children’s nursery and youth centre

It was one of the last branches of Wilko to close in the county after the retailer went into administration in August 2023.

The three-storey building has been empty for more than a year, despite a mystery bid from a potential buyer last November.

Net Church has now requested permission for change of use from a commercial unit to a mixed-use premises.

Formerly known as the Sittingbourne Pentecostal Church, the organisation has been serving the local community for almost 100 years.

It currently runs out of 95 East Street, which is around half a mile away from the proposed location.

In a design and access statement submitted to the council, the church says it aims to make minor changes to the inside and outside of the building.

The existing loading bay would be removed and windows would be added to allow natural light and ventilation on the ground floor.

Each zoned area includes its own entrance foyer, office space and facilities.

In the main entrance, there will be a children’s nursery and soft play area. The first floor will have an auditorium, large foyer and creche.

There will also be a youth centre and the addition of six recording studios.

Existing offices on the second floor will be used for the day-to-day management of the site.

There will be running different activities at the centre, including Little Angels Playgroup, parenting courses, youth groups and musician training.

Sunday services are set to be held between 8.30am and 2pm. The building won’t be used past 10pm.

Seven full-time and five part-time members of staff would be hired.

If approved, the church believes it would “generate additional trade” to shops, hairdressers and restaurants in the area.

The planning statement goes on to say: “The building has been vacant for some time now and we hope this application provides Swale council with an opportunity to work with willing applicants to make a positive contribution to the town centre.

“The regular upkeep and maintenance of the proposed changes will also generate business and employment for local tradesmen and women.

“We are of the opinion that there is a lack of children’s soft play venues and youth centres within the Sittingbourne area and a huge demand for further childcare places.”

To see more planning applications and other public notices for your area, click here.

The application is currently awaiting a decision bySwale council.