Objections mount after church opens in street without planning permission

Objections have been raised and an investigation launched by a local authority after a church established itself in a former convenience store on a busy Chatham high street without obtaining the necessary planning permission.

OIM C&S Mountain of Joy took over the premises previously occupied by Martin's on Luton High Street earlier this year.

After local residents reported the unauthorised change of use to Medway Council, officials launched an investigation into the matter.

The religious organisation, which holds Charity Commission registration, states its purpose is "to promote the advancement of the Christian religion" via worship services and outreach work in the community.

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In response to the enforcement action, the church has now lodged a retrospective planning application seeking to regularise its occupation of the site.

The application has drawn significant opposition from both local residents and their elected representatives.

Neighbours have raised concerns about insufficient parking provision, potential noise disturbance, and the disappearance of retail premises from the high street.

Luton ward councillor Joanne Howcroft-Scott has added her voice to those calling for the application to be rejected, arguing that "not every unit is appropriate for every use".

Writing to Medway Council, she stated: "While faith and community organisations play an important role, they must be located in premises suitable for such activity.

"This site appears constrained, tightly enclosed by neighbouring homes, and lacking adequate servicing, parking, and operational space."

Documentation submitted to planners indicates the venue would hold nearly 40 worshippers and offer just two parking spaces for staff.

Despite the ongoing council investigation, the church continues to operate from the Luton High Street premises.

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Medway Council has confirmed it will not pursue enforcement action while the planning application remains under consideration.

A determination on whether to grant retrospective permission is expected by June 18.

The building has been empty since the former convenience store closed in 2019.

Members of the public wishing to view the application or submit comments can do so by searching for reference MC/26/0772 on the council's planning portal.

Residents and the ward councillor will now await the council's verdict on whether the former shop can legitimately continue as a place of worship.

According to the Charity Commission, the church aims "to promote the advancement of the Christian religion by propagating the Gospel of Jesus Christ in accordance to the statement of faith in the United Kingdom from time to time as the trustees deem fit."

The charity brought in £25,600 last year and spent over £22,000.

They have three trustees as well as five volunteers.

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