Controversial plans for new mosque

Controversial plans for a new mosque

Story by Fran Belbin

Plans to extend the Umar Mosque on Barnsley Road have met with mixed opinions from local residents.

The mosque has submitted a planning application to knock down the house next door to add a prayer room. Representative Abdul Khayum told the Messenger, “This will be a new landmark building for the area and it will replace a building in poor condition.” The proposal has been supported by some residents who cite the mosque as having a positive influence in the area. However, others have objected to the plans. As one told us, “The new prayer hall looks to be a significant expansion. I'm a Muslim myself and I don't think think there is any need for a bigger mosque around here, there are plenty already. We have a lot of problems with mosque users parking across our driveways and on double yellow lines, noise and littering. There are only nine parking spaces in the new plans, but many people drive here even if they only live a short distance away.” Mr Khayum responded, “We do not want to increase the capacity of the mosque but just better accommodate those who already worship here. We will increase car parking and move the main entrance to Barnsley Road. This will ease the problems for local residents. The madrasah and larger events will continue at our Petre Street site so local residents should not worry about increased noise or disturbance.”

However, neighbours remain unconvinced, showing the Messenger photographs of inconsiderate car parking and litter thrown in gardens, and reporting incidents of vehicles being damaged and access difficulties for emergency vehicles. “We've had residents blocked in so one woman could not get her daughter to school. During Ramadan there is noise throughout the night from microphones inside the mosque, revving engines and people congregating outside.”

The plans will be decided by Sheffield City Council Planning Committee and can be viewed at http://tinyurl.com/jjedzzg.