Exeter factory could be turned into a new church

'This service is of immense value to the local community'

A factory on an Exeter industrial estate could get a new lease of life in 2026 as the home of a successful local church.

The Elim Trust Corporation wants to convert the Stanley Security unit at Signal House on the Marsh Barton industrial estate into a place of worship complete with a cafe and a soft play area.

It would be run by the Rediscover Church, which has been established in Exeter since 1928. Its current home in the former Matalan store at Haven Banks has been earmarked for padel courts and a bowling alley.

The church moved to Haven Banks in 2024 to accommodate its growing congregation, and key events attract around 500 people. The church hosts services and prayer events as well as conferences, holiday clubs and a food distribution hub.

Rediscover Church has been seeking a new permanent facility for eight years. The existing Providence Chapel in Northernhay is not big enough to accommodate all of its activities.

Inside the church in Cofton Road there would be an auditorium, a cafe, a kitchen and meeting spaces. On the first floor would be a youth centre, and the application says: “This service is of immense value to the local community and has proven to be successful at the Haven Banks pop up facility.”

It sums up: “It would enable Rediscover Church to create a much-sought permanent home at  the premises, allowing them to continue their invaluable work for their congregation and the wider community.

“The proposed development would represent an efficient use of soon-to-be vacant premises,  delivering a use compatible with the wider business park, and one which will generate jobs and opportunities beyond that of its current use.”

Public comments have also been lodged on the Exeter City Council website by church supporters.

One said: “The centre will benefit all manner of people in the area and beyond, and for a large church of 400-500 people a home to help meet the needs of the city.”

Another, a military veteran, wrote: “Rediscover helped me to grow socially, spiritually and mentally. I do really hope that this place is given to them because they support every group of people with open arms. Thanks to them for supporting the veterans.”

The Elim Trust Corporation is UK-based non-profit company and has been registered since 1934. It is based in Malvern and is associated with the broader Elim Pentecostal Movement.