Story: Andrew Green
The Messenger asked people living close to the Mosque what they thought about the planned rebuilding. Nearly all are practising Muslims. No one objected to a Mosque being sited where it is now.
Traffic problems
Everyone recognises that traffic congestion and parking are problems. Up to 700 children attend the Madressa. Mr and Mrs Chapman, of Osgathorpe Crescent, said that parents collecting them by car block the streets and driveways. Accidental damage is caused as a result. This was confirmed by residents of Osgathorpe Road. “I’m a prisoner in my own home,” one told us. Dr Khan, who lives close to the mosque and is disabled, said that his clearly marked space had been blocked. These residents fear that the problem will get worse if the Madressa is enlarged and improved. But others living on Osgathorpe Road and Devon Road said the problem was only for a short time each day and people would “just have to live with it.”
The Masjid’s Design and Access Statement submitted in support of the application says that most users of the Mosque and Madressa will arrive on foot. Some residents contested this, saying people came from all over Sheffield.
Another resident said that the new facility “will bring the Muslim community closer together.” But others thought the proposal was divisive. The Design & Access Statement says the Madressa will have facilities available for the whole community, but objectors were sceptical that non-Muslims would be welcome in the proposed building.
Benefits for children
People living in Osgathorpe Road and Devon Road were enthusiastic about the benefits of the Madressa. “It will be the best thing that will happen in this community,” one said. “There is not enough room at present.” “A good learning place for kids,” said another. “It will reduce the drug problem.” “It’s a good Mosque which teaches us a lot about our religion,” said a third.
School, contested claims that the Madressa will benefit pupils. He believes that by attending for several hours after school, children are unable to do their homework and are suffering academically as a result.
A dominant building
Mr and Mrs Chapman said that the area of Victorian villas and open spaces had been designated an area of special interest. The Islamic architecture proposed would not be in keeping with the rest of the area. The Design & Access Statement agrees. The intention is for a ‘dominant effect’, with a minaret on the corner of Barnsley Road ‘to emphasise the importance of the building.’
Consultation
Residents who object to the proposal felt their voices had not been heard. At a public meeting they had said what they thought but felt it had not been reported to the Planning Department. Some thought there had been pressure on local Muslims to say they agreed with the proposal. But everyone we spoke to, who supported the proposal, seemed to have done so willingly.
More comments from residents and information about the planning application can be found on the Council’s website at: www.sheffield.gov.uk. Follow links for planning applications on-line, planning reference: 07/01306/FUL