Plans to demolish a Dewsbury mosque and build a new one in its place will be determined next week.
The application relates to the Mohaddis E Azam Education Centre and Masjid E Madani at Ravenshouse Road, Dewsbury Moor and will be decided by Kirklees Council’s District-wide Planning Committee next Thursday (31 October).
An extension of the mosque had previously been approved, including its partial demolition, but under the new plans, the current building would be torn down completely and replaced with a new mosque and education centre.
A prayer hall, toilet facilities, reception and office would be at ground level, with a conference room, office, library, meeting room and toilets located on the first floor. The roof space would be used for storage. To the outside, the proposals would see the addition of a dome on the roof and minarets.
The plans are being decided by the committee due to the high levels of representations received that go against the green-light recommendation of council officers. Overall, the public response has been mixed.
After three rounds of publicity, 184 comments have been submitted to the council in objection to the proposals, and 44 in support. Two supporting petitions containing 186 and 204 signatures respectively have also been put forward, along with one 47-signature petition in objection.
Among the concerns raised are those around traffic and parking, a loss of privacy and the close proximity of another new mosque.
One objector said: “I live behind the mosque now and parking is already horrendous and dangerous, if I need emergency services now it is hard for them to park up as it is, I am totally against this idea.”
Another commented: “I’ve had enough of the constant drama and blocking. I’ve complained many times but no one listens or does anything. I’m fed up, refuse this, it’s not needed.”
On the other hand, one supporter described the mosque as “the best thing that has happened” to the area. Another commented: “The Masjid and education centre is already doing superb work in transforming the community through unity and education.
“I wish them all the best in supporting the youth and the community through wider projects under the new facilities proposed.”
Council officers have recommended the plans be approved subject to a number of conditions.
