Church leaders and residents groups are discussing plans for a permanent church to serve Great Notley.

The Archdeacon of Colchester, Martin Wallace is chairing a steering group to lead plans for an ecumenical place of worship to serve the developing community.

Christian denominations including Anglicans, Methodists, the Salvation Army and United Reformed Church have been involved in discussions with the Archdeacon.

Parish councillors, developers Countryside and representatives of Great Notley's two community associations are also being consulted.

"I think we are very fortunate to have Martin Wallace who is a real enthusiast and gets things done," said Black Notley councillor, Peter Turner.

"He has played an invaluable role in bringing together all kinds of players."

At the moment worshippers are using a temporary building next to the village green while a site for a permanent replacement is found.

Cllr Turner said this had allowed a fledgling congregation to become established: "At the moment the developers have provided a temporary facility and I think the challenge from the church perspective is to have confidence that there is a church community developing".

Early plans include having a church which can also be used for wider community activities.

"It should be a living building which provides for weekday activities while respecting the church," Cllr Turner said.

"We want to see a building which is not just for Sundays."

Money is already available to build a new rectory and the Anglicans have provided an initial commitment for the church building.

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