A PUBLIC meeting in Coleford tomorrow (Thursday) will update people on plans to make a landmark church a centre for the community.

Campaigners say there if a sustainable case can’t be made for the restoration of St John’s Church, there is a “real threat” to the Grade II-listed building that overlooks the town.

St John’s, which was closed by the Diocese of Gloucester in 2016, is on the market for £500,000.

The St John’s Next Generation group wants to make the 138-year-old Victorian church a “hub” for cultural heritage, the arts and health and well-being.

The group says there is a deadline of the end of September and the community’s help is needed to build a business case to put to the Church Commissioners.

Coleford town councillor Marilyn Cox, who chairs the association, said: “If this sustainable business case cannot be made and the building continues to remain empty and deteriorate there is a real threat to this landmark building.

“Can you imagine Coleford without St Johns? We’ve worked hard to produce documents and evidence to back up a community case. We need the community to take this on board and decide the way forward.”

Group secretary Vicky Morgan, added: “It is hoped that St John’s will be a building that will inspire local people to be active and engaged in their community.

“Similar projects like All Souls in Bolton and Quay Place in Ipswich show what can be done with such buildings.

“St John’s has the potential of providing a vibrant place for all and play a key part in the regeneration of Coleford.”

The meeting at 7pm in the Main Place will include a presentation on the proposed business case and people can have their say.

See www.stjohnsnext gen.co.uk for more information.