A MORMON church will be opening on a business park after plans were given the go-ahead.

The Church of the Latter Day Saints will take over the empty Sapphire House on Vale Park off Crab Apple Way in Evesham to convert it from offices into a place of worship.

The church will be moving its base to Vale Park from its current home in Evesham High Street.

Sapphire House has been on the market since October 2018 with little interest shown.

No weddings or funerals would be held at the church, according to the application.

Planners at Wychavon District Council approved the plan earlier this week.

Jonathan Wharrad of Evesham said: "I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ and I have used church buildings over the world for the last 40 years for many charitable activities.

"I have lived in Evesham for 22 years having held meetings and managed activities for Evesham people from two schools, two office locations, working alongside 100 plus volunteer members as a group to support local activities for the community and needy members of the community.

"By committing to this application the local planners and community will be strengthening our ability to practice our faith and achieve the organisations charitable aims."

Commenting on the application, Antony Bunce said: "As the lay minister for the Evesham Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, I fully support this application.

It will provide a permanent place for worship that is easily accessible and ensures an inclusive environment for everyone in the local community."