Revised mosque plan set for approval

The mosque at 20 Pearson Park opened in 1992 and worshippers say they need to expand as they need more room.

The proposals – which sparked a protest last December by the BNP, which didn’t materialise and a counter demonstration by Unite Against Fascism – went before the city’s planning committee the same month, but were refused on grounds of the design not being in keeping with the park.

But this time planners are recommending the green light for amended plans which they describe as “simple” and “contemporary.”

The mosque says worshippers are having to pray outside because there’s not enough space, but objectors believe the new facilities could draw up to 700 people, causing parking problems and affecting the surrounding area.

The plans have attracted 13 letters of objection saying they are not in keeping with the original building, one of the largest and most impressive Victorian detached villas in the park, but also a petition in support bearing 1000 signatures, and 75 letters.

The proposals include building a two-storey extension to the side and rear, with a copper-effect flat roof and dome, and making the original building three-storey.

One resident, who didn’t wish to be named, said: “There is already inadequate parking for the numbers who already use the mosque.

“If it gets any bigger this problem will only get worse.

“I do not want this type of building to dominate Hull’s oldest public park.”

He added: “I find it hard to believe that residents need additional permission to put a satellite dish on the side of their house, because of its potential harm on the conservation area, yet a mosque being doubled in size is judged to be ‘in keeping’.”

However planners back the design saying: “Many objectors express the view that any extensions should be in the same style as the original building. Whilst this is one design approach, it is not the only one.

“It is considered that the proposal, due to its size and simple detailing, would not compete with the original building and appears as an addition of the early 21st century, thereby contributing in a positive way to enhancing the character and appearance of the conservation area.”

They accept the plans will increase the usage of the mosque and “possibly traffic levels” but don’t think that will amount to a “serious adverse effect on highway safety or on the amenities of neighbouring occupiers or other users of the park.”

The mosque is next door to a police station.

Humberside Police wrote to support the previous plan.