Muslim prayer centre sparks parking fears
A new Muslim prayer centre planned for a the site of a former register office in Shrewsbury would cause huge parking problems, according to residents.
People living near Shirehall have raised fears about congestion and safety should the plans for Column Lodge in Preston Street get the go-ahead. Up to 50 people could use the building at peak times according to a planning report – despite there only being three parking spaces on the site.
Shropshire Council sold the former school to the Shropshire Bangladesh Welfare Society for £215,000. Society members now want to turn the building into a Muslim prayer centre and community room and plans have been submitted to change its use to a day care centre and place of worship.
The building previously housed the council's registration services before they were transferred to the Guildhall in Frankwell last year.
A design and access statement in support of the planning application said that at peak times on a Friday there could be up to 50 visitors at the premises. But the proposals said a licence has been granted for visitors to use the Shirehall overspill car park.
Matthew Wrisdale, who works near to Column Lodge, said increased traffic to the site would be dangerous.
Resident Zara DeHavilland-Davies said the centre would cause parking chaos.
People have until May 21 to comment on the proposals. Visit www.shropshire.gov.uk for details.
