A proposal to open Harrogate’s first mosque has attracted 100 comments ahead of a decision by Harrogate Borough Council.
Residents have until Sunday, February 6 to have their say. So far 56 people have written in support while 40 people have written to object.
Planning applications rarely receive as many comments.
The objections highlight concerns about traffic, parking and the fact that the building is a non-designated heritage asset.
Households across Harrogate have reported receiving anonymous leaflets through their doors encouraging them to oppose the plans with a guide on how to word the objection.
Supporters dispute the concerns. They say there is enough parking nearby and that it would be good to see the building brought back into use.
Following a successful crowdfunding campaign, the Harrogate Islamic Association (HIA) revealed that it wants to convert the former Home Guard club into a place of worship.
The HIA was established in 2011 and has been looking for a permanent place to convert into a mosque for years. Other attempts to find a home have fallen through.
Read more:
- Harrogate Islamic Association hopes to see off anti-mosque campaign
- Harrogate’s first Mosque could open at former Home Guard club
Around 100 worshippers currently meet in the Quakers’ Friends Meeting House on Queen Parade.
Zahed Amanullah, from the HIA, told the Stray Ferret that they hope to run religious, community and charitable events at the building.
It would also support Syrian and Afghan refugees who have moved to the area. He added:
“We thought this is our best chance to have somewhere in the town centre. The location is fantastic.
“We recognise its historical value and we want to be mindful of that when we restore the building. We will retain its period features. We’re not going to put a minaret up or anything like that, it’s needed as a space. Nothing will be added.
“We see ourselves as part of the fabric of the town. We’re all in Harrogate because we love Harrogate. We have a very diverse community of Muslims from Asia, Africa and England, but the nearest mosque is more than 15 miles away.
“It’s a rare vacant spot where there are no facilities for the community and it will easily handle our weekly needs.”
