St Mary’s Church in Devizes could double as a venue for large theatrical performances but still be able to host christenings, weddings and funerals.

That is one option being discussed by the parochial church council as they ponder the church’s future.

Because of falling attendances, the PCC was forced to seriously consider the what to do with the 12th century building and initially it was considered making it redundant.

But now the historic Grade I listed church could remain consecrated for occasional religious events at the same time as being converted for community use.

Tony Scorer, a member of St Mary’s PCC, told Devizes town council on Tuesday night: “The building is an asset to the town and parish and we will be looking for funding to maintain it as a place of worship as well as a community venue.”

The PCC has produced a consultation document, which Mr Scorer called a “straw man”. The results of the consultation will go towards a more detailed document, or “tin man”, leading to a firm development brief, or “stone man”.

Coun Ian Hopkins has been involved in the discussions that St Mary’s PCC has been having. He told the meeting: “St Mary’s have spent a lot of time and energy on the future of the church. They want it to be used as a vibrant space and not become derelict like the Assize Courts.

“But they don’t want to duplicate or compete with other venues in the town. One possibility is having temporary raked seating for up to 250 people to accommodate much larger companies coming in to perform, while retaining the religious function for weddings and funerals.”

Another suggestion for the alternative use of the church, which featured in the 1967 film of Far From the Madding Crowd, is as a drop-in centre and serviced charity accommodation to be used as a meeting place for local groups.

The pews are likely to be removed and the ancient stone floor covered to make it safer for community use and better for performances and exhibitions. Ancient monuments will be retained and renovated.

Coun Margaret Taylor moved that comments should be gleaned from each individual councillor, rather than the council making one joint comment.

This was approved by the meeting.