After gathering in homes, schools and even the local pub for more than two decades, planning permission has finally been granted for a new church on an expanding housing estate.

St Gabriel's at Kings Hill, near West Malling will be the first new Church of England place of worship in the diocese of Rochester for about 20 years.

The Rev Mark Montgomery, who has been heading the St Gabriels's congregation for eight years, said he was looking forward to moving into a "permanent home".

He said: "It's been great getting out and around Kings Hill over such a long time. Part of our core values is to serve the community and we have certainly done that.

"For the older members, it's been a long time coming and this is the answer to their prayers. And, to the younger generations, it's exciting."

He said over the years they had met at The Spitfire pub, Kings Hill Cricket Club, community centres and schools.

He said:"It will be nice to have a place where we can plans things in our time and not have to fit in at places.

"The vision for the building is to create a place of community for all people.

"A community hub at the heart of Kings Hill where all ages, regardless of faith affiliation are welcomed at different times of the week, through the various community activities that we run."

He said that despite not having a permanent roof over their heads they still pull in congregations of between 45 to 75 every week.

He added that he was proud to see Kings Hill evolve as a real community over the years.

Stephen Hoad, the diocese's property director, said: "The new place of worship will be an exciting opportunity to contribute a lasting legacy to the new and growing community at Kings Hill."

The Church building will stand prominently on a site at the centre of the Kings Hill development, opposite the community centre and the Running Airman statue, next to a play park. It will be within walking distance of all of the schools and a short walk from the centre and business park.

St Gabriel’s is a growing Anglican Church that meets in person and online every week.

Public worship is every Sunday at 10am in the Discovery School, Discovery Drive, Kings Hill.