Hanbury Road Baptist Chapel in Bargoed is to be transformed into a new library as part of the regeneration of the town.
Caerphilly County Borough Council has approved plans to turn the landmark Grade 2* listed building into a library and community space.
As well as boasting the library service, the building, located in the heart of the town centre, will also house a new community café and office space.
A new worship space will also be created so that the building can still be used by the local congregation.
The proposals for the Hanbury Road Baptist Chapel are a joint partnership between Caerphilly County Borough Council, United Welsh Housing Association, the chapel congregation and the Welsh Assembly Government.
Councillor Ron Davies, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “We are delighted to be working with our partners to both develop and preserve this historic building and create a first class facility for the wider community.
“This scheme is an integral part of Bargoed’s regeneration strategy and we will continue to give a clear signal that, despite the recession, we will drive these projects forward for the benefit of the community.”
The century old building with its classic architecture is a dominant building on Bargoed’s main shopping street.
The rear of the building, which faces the main car park, will be demolished and replaced with a new extension.
Peter Laing, chair of United Welsh said: “This is an excellent example of what can be achieved through effective co-operation. All the partners involved have played crucial roles in progressing this exciting community project and we now look forward to seeing the results.”
For more information about the regeneration of Bargoed visit www.bargoedsbigidea.co.uk