Plymouth Brethren seeks planning permission for members-only shop at closed-off compound

The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church has submitted plans to open a members-only shop at its closed-off compound in Three Mile Cross, Reading. The proposal seeks planning permission to relocate the shop to the church’s main compound, where its Gospel Hall is situated behind two security gates. The move aims to bring the shop and gospel hall closer together, according to a spokesperson for the Brethren. The shop, which will be known as Campus & Co, is intended to serve as a supermarket for members of the church and will remain closed to non-members.

The Berkshire branch of the Plymouth Brethren already operates a members-only shop on Arkwright Road, located on an industrial estate in the west of Reading. This existing shop serves the congregation’s needs and is part of the church’s broader efforts to support its members through various initiatives. The proposed relocation would consolidate these services within the church’s main compound, with the shop being housed in an ancillary building adjacent to the Gospel Hall.

The Plymouth Brethren is a small Christian sect whose members typically grow up within the church and are encouraged to socialize primarily with other members. The church’s website states that social contact with non-members is ‘permitted’ but must align with ‘Holy Scripture and his or her committal to the bond of the Lord’s Supper.’ Members are also advised to ‘eat and drink in social fellowship’ only with those who share their faith.

The church’s policies extend to media consumption, with members discouraged from watching television or listening to the radio ‘except in an educational setting at school.’ This restriction is based on the belief that such media can be ‘corrupting or damaging to children and vulnerable younger family members.’ The church maintains that these practices are designed to protect its members and uphold its doctrinal standards.

While the Plymouth Brethren emphasizes its commitment to family unity, some former members have described being cut off from friends and family after leaving the church. An article in the New Statesman magazine published last year included testimony from former members who recounted such experiences. The church, however, asserts that it does not ‘break up families’ and maintains that its practices are consistent with its teachings.

The proposed shop is expected to generate revenue that will be reinvested into the church’s charity organizations. The move reflects the church’s ongoing efforts to support its members and strengthen its community through shared resources and services. As the planning process unfolds, the community and local authorities will be closely watching the developments.

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