Wolverhampton GKN site to become Sikh temple
[gallery] A former factory on one of Wolverhampton's busiest routes is being transformed into a Sikh temple and will reopen before the end of the year, it was announced today.
A former factory on one of Wolverhampton's busiest routes is being transformed into a Sikh temple and will reopen before the end of the year, it was announced today.
Work is under way to bring the landmark GKN building, in Birmingham New Road, back to life as part of the £4 million project after years standing derelict.
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It was once at the heart of the community as a vehicle testing site, employing 400 people. But, after it closed 15 years ago, the site was targeted repeatedly by vandals.
In 2007, a convoy of travellers moved into the building for a fortnight, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.
Now the 18,000sq ft building will reopen for worshippers before the end of the year, with work is likely to continue on the bigger revamp for up to three years.
Councillor Michael Heap, who represents Spring Vale ward, said: "The building has been targeted by vandals ever since it closed."
One of the temple's trustees, Balbir Singh Ghateaura, said once complete the site would feature several conference rooms, a gym, IT suite and classrooms.
Worshippers at a current Sikh temple in Westbury Street, Wolverhampton, will move across to the new site before the end of the year.
