A new mosque could be built off Fishergate Hill is plans are given approval.
AdvertisementThe Preston Muslim Cultural Centre have applied for permission to demolish a building on Grafton Street and extend to build a new mosque.
Plans outline how the former builder’s yard for a roofing contractor would house a mosque and car park in the Broadgate area.
Documents prepared for the council by Preston architects Aamir Design argues although in a residential area the mosque would be acceptable.
It said: “The previous use of the site as a builder’s yard for a roofing contractor would not be deemed acceptable under current guidelines.
“The vacant parcel of land which was subsequently blighted by fly-tipping is to be returned to a use which is suitable within a residential area.”
“The overall complex including the current buildings represents a cohesive use of land and buildings leading into an established area, maintaining the frontage along Fishergate Hill, extending and improving the retained building on Grafton Street and adding a modern place of worship set within a courtyard.”
The mosque plans were scaled back after meetings with local residents, particularly given concerns over how overbearing the building would be on nearby properties.
Local Riversway councillors also raised concerns about the impact on parking in the area – especially at times of religious celebration or importance when congregations would increase.
The full plans for the mosque and community hall can be seen on the council website.
Anyone wishing to comment should do so via the council website or email devcon@preston.gov.uk quoting reference 06/2014/0069 by Saturday 1 March.
Do you live in the area? Do you use the current cultural centre? What do you think of the plans? Let us know in the comments below