Mosque plan wins support of planning chiefs

A new Islamic centre and mosque with a prominent minaret is poised to be built on the site of a former pub in the Black Country after winning the support of planning chiefs.

The backing for the plans on the site of the old Hop and Barleycorn pub in West Bromwich comes despite a 60-name petitions from residents in Dartmouth Street against it.

They fear excessive noise, loss of light, an increase in traffic, parking problems and the number of mosques in the area.

The two-storey building would feature a distinctive dome and minaret and would be 37ft tall at its highest point.

The decision will be made by Sandwell Council's planning committee next week. In his report, planning officer John Dadd said: "The proposal is considered to be satisfactory and would not affect the amenities of neighbouring property. In terms of height it would not be particularly dominant but it would be a larger footprint on the site than the previous public house was.

"Although the proposed mosque would be slightly higher than the preceding building, I do not consider any loss of light or outlook to be so significant as to warrant refusal."

An existing Islamic centre is currently located at 67 Dartmouth Street but leaders say this will close and be turned into homes if permission for the new building is granted.

The new mosque would include a prayer hall with capacity for 192 mats, a lecture room, a community hall and a separate women's prayer room.

Mr Dadd has said the noise fears are unfounded, as there will be no "call to prayer" from any loudspeakers.