EXTRA space for social and educational events is to be created at a church in Newent.

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, has approached Forest of Dean District Council for planning permission to alter and extend its Ross Road building, also adding kitchen facilities and toilets.

Father Aiden Murray said there was still a long way to go before the project could become a reality.

The Diocese of Clifton, which covers Newent, must give its approval for the development and parishioners will need to find £70,000 or more through a fundraising drive.

Father Aiden said: "It is an indication of what we want to do. Nothing will happen without the approval of the diocese. The idea is to use part of the church as a social centre. We have no hall and we haven't any room to build a hall."

He said the church was thriving with 120 or more parishioners attending Mass on Saturday and Sunday. The space is needed not just for social events, but for adult education sessions and Alpha courses, which are introductory courses to Christianity.

If planning permission is granted and the diocese approves, the church could be slightly extended to the front and sides, to accommodate the new facilities.

Father Murray said the total cost would come in under £100,000, and he suggested £70,000 or £80,000 as possible target figures for a fundraising appeal.

Because of the awaited permissions, no time scale has yet been fixed for the completion of the project.