They want to be in a rural area and have earmarked a site in Kings Bromley.

They have applied to Lichfield District Council for planning permission.

Eastfields House in Alrewas Road, would become a £800,000 Thai British Buddhist Centre – a permanent Buddhist meditation and retreat centre.

The 150-year-old manor house set in two acres of land is considered an ideal location to house four or five Thai monks and assistants.

The rural setting, gardens and extensive accommodation, are also considered perfect for a meditation retreat for both Buddhists and secular groups who need time for peaceful reflection.

Assistant John Sergeant said that although the temple would be built to serve Thai people from across the region, they would also be developing links with the wider community and encouraging interfaith relations.

The temple would also become a secular retreat for people who want to spend a few days away somewhere peaceful, possibly to learn how to meditate, as well as a Buddhist retreat, Mr Sergeant went on to say.

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