A project to demolish the building and replace it with a larger facility never got off the ground. Now proposals to get work carried out at the centre have been re-launched but this time involve a refurbishment and small extensions.

It will cost around £400,000 instead of the £1.5million figure linked to the original plans although there is still a way to go to raise the money with a total of £70,000 currently in the pot.

Project manager George Joynson MBE said the plans were on a much smaller scale than originally envisaged but claimed it would still bring the existing building, off Church Street, which dates back to the 1970s, up to date.

Mr Joynson said:”The original plans would have cost us millions. This way, the centre still gets brought up to date and made more practical through the small extensions.”

He added: “At present no timescales have been set but everyone is working hard to ensure that the momentum we have is not lost.”

The board that dealt with the initial plans has teamed up with the existing centre management committee to devise the current project.

The small extensions would include a new clergy and meeting room, new entrance, potential shop or meeting room, extended kitchen and new stores.

No formal plans have yet been lodged for the development but sketches have been put at the back of the adjacent church.

Applications will be made for funding and it is hoped churchgoers will help raise the money needed.

The congregation of St Luke’s Church will be addressed about the project during the 10am service on November 5 and ideas will be welcomed.