There are big plans in the works for a historic church in the heart of downtown Hamilton.

Reverend Ian Sloan of New Vision United Church, which stands at the corner of Main and MacNab streets, has unveiled a plan to transform the structure into a live music hall and social justice centre.

In a time when congregations are dwindling and increasingly vacating Hamilton’s stately old churches, New Vision United Church has a new idea to keep its downtown landmark alive — having it double as a 1,000-seat live music venue.

The congregation hopes to renovate and re-brand its spacious 149-year-old building near the Macnab bus terminal, formerly Centenary United Church, as a home to mid-size entertainment events.