It’s People . Community. Future.
This is so much more than a building.
A Vision for Barnstaple
We’re creating something special in the heart of Barnstaple—a vibrant Community Hub designed to support healthy minds, healthy lives, and meaningful connection.
A restored landmark building.
A safe space for all generations.
A home where people can belong, grow, and thrive.
Our Story
2012 – Where It All Began
Our journey started when we, Mark & Andrea Rowan moved to North Devon, to lead a small church. Just two miles from the beach, we quickly became passionate about serving the local community.
2013 - A New Identity
We became Coastal Community Church, reflecting our heart to reach people and build something relevant, welcoming, and full of life.
2015 - Growing the Vision
As the church grew, we moved to Barnstaple, meeting in a local school—while carrying a bigger dream: to create a permanent space that serves the whole community.
2020 – A Bold Step
We purchased a former nightclub in the town centre, which was originally a 1930’s regal cinema.
Our vision was clear:
To transform it into a multi-purpose community hub—a place for connection, support, and hope.
2021–2022 Strength Through Challenge
During the pandemic, everything paused—but the vision didn’t.
We were busy in the background undertaking surveys and architectural plans drawn up and renovation plans approved by our local council.
2023-2024 Expanding the Impact
We took time to refocus and renamed as One Life Church, reflecting a wider mission beyond our immediate location.
We launched a sister church One Life Church Tiverton, marking a new season of growth.
2025 - We opened our Community Pantry
In response to the growing needs around us, we did up a small part of the front of the building in order to launch a community pantry to support local families facing real hardship, ensuring no one is left behind. Open every Saturday, it offers a friendly, warm welcome, a hot drink, and essential provisions for those who need it most.
2026 - Where are we now?
We are actively raising funds to complete the building and bring this vision fully to life. The building will be The Hub on the Strand and be home to One Life Church.
What we are Building?
A Community Café
A light-filled, welcoming space overlooking the River Taw.
Healthy food & great coffee
Indoor & outdoor seating
A place to relax, meet, and connect
Creating local jobs
Indoor Skatepark
Supporting North Devon’s thriving skate culture.
Safe, all-weather environment
Skateboarding & scooter space
Lessons and development opportunities
A positive outlet for young people
Courses & Support
Practical help for real life.
Mental health & wellbeing
Parenting & relationships
Marriage support
Money management
Youth Programmes
Helping young people navigate today’s challenges.
Self-esteem & identity
Peer pressure & friendships
Social media awareness
Emotional wellbeing
Church & Community
A space to explore faith, find purpose, and build meaningful relationships.
OUR HEART
Everything we do comes down to this:
We want to love our community and meet the needs of our community.
Creating a space that is:
Welcoming
Safe
Hope-filled
Life-giving
We want to love our community and meet the needs of our community.
Everything we do comes down to this
Be part of the Story
You can help make it happen.
Partner with us
Give or fundraise
Volunteer your time
Spread the vision