Final decision on Preston mosque that opened without permission in empty shop
A mosque and community centre have been given the green light to remain in the former furniture shop in Preston where they opened without permission earlier this year.
The Salahaddin Mosque, on Crook Street, requested “retrospective” approval for the conversion of the vacant retail premises in July.
However, work to establish the new place of worship and community facility had already been completed in April.
Preston City Council have now accepted the change of use, after concluding that it would not have an adverse impact on the surrounding area.
A report from the authority’s planning officers, explaining the reason for their decision, noted that the mosque had built up a congregation of around 130 people - and that its operators had “supported several families to settle in Preston and contribute to the growth of the city”.
Prior to moving into what was the Furniture World Preston store, the mosque community had “no fixed place” to meet.
Environmental health officers raised no objection to the conversion on noise grounds - notwithstanding the fact that during the summer months, prayers may take place as early as 4.15am and as late as 10.55pm.
However, planners considered that because of the "industrial” nature of the site - and the nearest residential properties being around 30 metres away - there would be no “increased noise and disturbance”. Jummah Prayers - which take place on Fridays, typically around 1pm - were, in any case, expected to be the most well-attended session.
Separate men' s and women’s entrances have been created on the ground floor to allow access to their respective prayer areas.
Meanwhile, the 27-space car park was deemed sufficient, given the location of the promises in an area with good transport links.