A Christian denomination has been given the green light for plans to demolish an industrial building in Berkswell and build a new place of worship, despite opposition from neighbours. 

Coventry Gospel Hall Trust applied in March for the place of worship, described as a "meeting hall", to be built in Duggins Lane.

The scheme proposed the hall be only used by the Brethren Community for Christian worship. 

No secular or other activities are allowed by the Christian denomination in their places of worship.

The denomination, which has its origins in the 19th century, already has a large meeting hall in Baginton, on the outer edge of Coventry. 

The applicant chose the Solihull location, which is in the green belt, as it is close to the homes of members of the congregation.

But Solihull Council officers referred a final decision on the plan to the authority's planning committee due to the "substantial amount of public concern" after a public consultation received 30 responses with 28 against.

The scheme went before the committee's latest meeting where Berkswell parish councillor Richard Drake said: "The issue of increased noise and disturbance has not been properly addressed (by officers).

"The proposed occupier, or future one, will have no restrictions placed on their use of the hall. 

"We request that use of this hall is formally restricted to the Brethren and only regularly used for services on Sunday morning at 6am, Monday evenings at 7pm and never after 8.30pm."

Mr Fronton, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said: "The Plymouth Brethren are, as you would expect, wholly respectful of the interests of the local community.

"In reality the premises will have very limited duration of use, typically two services a week."

He also highlighted planning officers – who recommended approval – had said the scheme was "appropriate development in the green belt" because it would be on previously-developed land.

During the debate Councillor Bob Grinsell, chairman of the committee, said he would like to see the parish councillor's suggested condition on restricted use of the hall be added, and for a condition of a car park management plan to allay concerns over parking.

Councillor Sardul Marwa then asked: "Are we not setting a precedent here?

"I know there are a number of other religious bodies in this borough. 

"Can they buy these warehouses in the green belt anywhere, knock it down and have a change of use to a place of worship?"

Lawrence Osbourne, the authority's area planning officer, replied: "We are not setting a precedent because each application has to be considered on its merits."

When the vote was taken on whether to approve, subject to conditions and the additional conditions, eight councillors voted in favour with one abstention.