A “huge increase” in the use of foodbanks has been cited in a planning application for an extra store and accommodation for use by the Highway Church on Church Street, Penryn.

The application, for a change of use from retail to foodbank store, is for a site between the church and nearby garage showrooms.

The unit is currently used for selling antiques and for antique and clock repair.

In a planning statement, the church said: “Highway Church has been established in Penryn for nearly 20 years and moved into the former Old School Building three years ago.

“Since moving in to the building adjacent to the application site, Highway Church has experienced a huge increase in demand for all its facilities and, therefore, to facilitate this, requires more space.”

The foodbank is one of ten currently operating in Cornwall, with the Trussell Trust reporting that foodbank use had almost trebled between 2012 and 2014.