DISAPPOINTED worshippers at an Islamic Centre in Crewe are set to appeal against the decision to close their Mosque.

The Shajalal Mosque, based at a house in Walthall Street, had been given temporary permission three years ago to be used as an Islamic Worship and Study Centre.

Last month councillors discussed the application for further permission and were concerned about reports of 70 people being in the centre at once and parking problems.

Council planning officers carried out a survey which revealed 58 people visiting the mosque with seven using cars.

But councillor June Roberts told the committee the street did suffer from parking problems and traffic congestion but that at the moment many of the students living in the area were away.

Last Thursday the application was turned down.

"We will be appealing against this," said Abul Bashor, from the Mosque. "It is very peaceful and we have no parking problems.

"We are very disappointed for the whole community, there is nowhere else in the area to go.

"In the last three years we have had no problems. We are very, very upset I don't know why this has happened."

Conservatives on the borough council voted against refusing the application and are now calling for the Labour Group to justify itself.

Spokesman Donald Potter said: "In the discussion prior to the decision, it was made clear by the professional planning officers that whilst it was obvious that many people used the building at the same time for quiet meditation and prayer, this in itself was not sufficient reason to justify a refusal."

Mr Potter said there was no evidence of demonstrable harm to local residents, traffic problems or reason for the centre not to be situated in a residential area.

He added: "It was obvious that the Labour Group did not want the house in Walthall Street to be used as a mosque. They should now make public what reasons they had to justify a refusal."

Labour councillor Chris Thorley, planning chairman, said: "There was plenty of evidence put before the members. They had carried out a site visit on the previous Friday.

"It was noted that 58 people went in. In the first place permission was given for seven people, this is too many for a normal terraced house.

"We wish the organisation well but we consider that they should find alternative premises."

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