PLANS are being drawn up for a new church and community centre for Weir and building could start next summer.

For many years the village has had no church, although groups have continued to meet in people's houses.

But in July, the Weir Hotel opened its doors early on a Sunday morning to welcome the new Weir Baptist Church.

And although the church has a meeting place, there are still plans for a church and community centre on the site of the former Doals Baptist Church, in Burnley Road.

Minister the Rev Neil Hepworth said: "Presently we are having more detailed plans drawn with a view to submitting them to the council in the New Year. If successfully passed we will publish them so you can see what is planned."