A FORMER nightclub and casino could become a place of worship on Canvey.

The Redeemed Christian Church of God Fruitful Tabernacle plans to create the new church on the site of the former Club CK in Eastern Esplanade, Canvey to help reduce crime on the island and make the area safer.

The former club site will be split into two developments, with a dance studio also being built next door, if plans are approved.

Pastor Margaret Odukoya said the group has been on Canvey for “some time” ahead of its plans to bring the church to the island.

She said: “We do not drink, we do not smoke but every time we see a nightclub we want to help the people that go to it.

“The council’s representatives and Rebecca Harris MP have said that we have helped to reduce crime on the island as well.

“We hope this space will mean we can help more people and perhaps turn their life around.”

Edward Parkin of B and T Parkin Ltd, landlords of the site felt the church’s interest was the perfect change for the former club.

He said: “We wanted to move away from the nightclub scene and the problems that came with that, now we have neighbours.

“Because the floor space is very large, we thought it was more suitable to split the area into two.”

The church opened its first place of worship in Tilbury ten years ago where it then moved to Basildon.

The group already works on Canvey walking through the town acting as street pastors, praying for and giving their support to the residents that are enjoying the nightlife.

After its proposal for a new home in Eastern Esplanade, RCCG plans to continue expanding.

Pastor Margaret said: “This is all part of a bigger plan for us to spread our message to the public.

“We want to see people jumping, dancing and celebrating life and we want the borough to be good and be safe.

“We said to police that if they require our support, we will be there to support them.

“We are confident that we will be given the backing from Castle Point Council.”

The application will be decided later this year.