IT HAS taken more than 16 years but Eastleigh's former Church of the Resurrection has finally received a new roof.

Ever since a disastrous fire swept through the Grade II listed building it has been known as the "church without a roof."

Workmen have been busy fixing tiles to the roof of the building, pictured, which has literally risen from the ashes.

For it is now set to take on a new role providing homes in the heart of the town.

The landmark building was in danger of becoming an embarrassing eyesore.

But Eastleigh Housing Association stepped in with a £2.5m redevelopment plan for the church.

Work has been forging ahead to create 25 flats which will be a mix of affordable and subsidised key worker homes.

The latest technological wizardry has been used in the conversion, including throwing a steel ring around the inside of the building.

Work is due to be completed in April 2004 and the former church building will provide a spiritual home for a new congregation.