A 15th century church on the outskirts of the city centre will be getting a new tenant after plans were given the go ahead.

Norwich Men's Shed applied to move into St Martin Church, in Oak Street, back in May and was approved by Norwich City Council on Wednesday.

As part of the plans to move in Norwich Men's Shed are looking to put their stamp on the site, changing the existing sign near the front of the churchyard.

It also wants to remove two soundproof booths fitted by the previous tenant, The Wharf Music School to create more space.

St Martins Church in Oak StreetSt Martins Church in Oak Street (Image: Norwich City Council)

Some free-standing walls will be erected to carry electrical cabling and power points to serve the rooms there.

The site will open between 9am and 10pm from Monday to Sunday with three part-time staff on hand.

READ MORE: Racist graffiti at scenic riverside spot as site is targeted by vandals

Norwich Men's Shed is a charity set up in 2013 to give men, who may struggle with loneliness, social isolation and mental health, a place to learn skills and create projects.

Norwich Men's Shed is a charity set up in 2013Norwich Men's Shed is a charity set up in 2013 (Image: Archant)

The permission from Norwich City Council requires the business to create the new shop within three years and said the development must follow the plans submitted.

READ MORE: City betting shop given green light to move into former bank building

The St Martin site dates back to 1491 and lost its tower to bomb damage in 1942.

It was rebuilt in 1953 by architect John Chaplin as a church hall for neighbouring parishes.

After being used as a night shelter by the St Martins Housing Trust, the church was transformed into Oak Studios, a rehearsal space for theatre and music groups by The Wharf Music School before leaving in April this year.

The church when it was used as a night shelter by the St Martins Housing TrustThe church when it was used as a night shelter by the St Martins Housing Trust (Image: Archant)