WORSHIPPERS who first met in a workmen's hut could have a new church for the Millennium.

Plans have been unveiled for the £400,000 St Michael's RC Church to replace the existing wooden building on Ribble Drive, Whitefield, erected more than 30 years ago as a "temporary" solution.

The church will have seating for 120 worshippers with accommodation for an additional 80 people in an adjoining meeting room and 40 in a smaller area, both separated by retractable doors.

There will also be kitchen and toilet facilities and it is hoped to raise additional funds to landscape the grounds. St Michael's was founded in 1966 to serve the needs of a large community moving from Manchester to the Hillock Estate. Mass was first said in a workmen's hut, surrounded by tools and wellington boots.

The congregation moved into the parish school when it opened in April 1968 and the church was finally completed in September of that year.

Parishioners have been working for years to raise £200,000 for a new home to replace the dilapidated building and the Salford Diocese has agreed to make up the shortfall with a loan.

It is hoped that the foundations will be in place for the Feast of St Michael on September 29 with the opening of the church in September 2000.

A decision is expected by planning officers within weeks.

Father John Rowan joined the parish in 1993. He said: "We are right in the centre of the estate and as a part of the new church we will specifically have a social area so we can benefit the community."

Fund-raising will continue on Sunday with a car boot sale in the grounds of St Michael's RC Primary School. Doors open at 10.30am.

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