Controversial mosque plan backed

The building is to be a mosque and a "community partnership centre"

A Lancashire council has accepted a controversial proposal to convert a former Methodist chapel into a mosque.

The Medina Education Trust will now use the building at Mount Vale, Clitheroe, as a multi-faith community centre.

About 150 people attended the Ribble Valley Council meeting to see the plans approved by eight votes to five.

It is the eighth attempt by the town's Muslim community to build a mosque in the town, with previous plans being strongly opposed by some residents.

The chairman of the planning committee, councillor Richard Sherras, said there had been substantial and oppressive lobbying from both sides.

'Positive decision'

He said councillors had been caught in a "Catch 22" situation whereby if they approved the plans they would be accused of ignoring the wishes of the majority and if they refused they would be branded racist.

The secretary of the town's Medina Islamic Education Centre, Sheraz Arshad, promised to be "good neighbours" and said the whole community would benefit.

"I'm really pleased it's finally happened for us. There's been a lot of local opposition, there's been some racist undertones.

"I'm pleased the council has actually put that to one side and gave a positive decision."

Some objection letters said they did not want their town "spoilt" by having a mosque and that Muslims should, "go to other places".

The proposals include plans for one floor to become a mosque and also a "community partnership centre".