A historic pub in Norwich, Norfolk, United Kingdom, could be converted into a place of worship under plans submitted by the local Muslim association, prompting objections from residents and campaigners concerned about the building’s heritage and the impact on local roads.
The planning application proposes turning the former Gatehouse pub into a mosque, with a large copper-coloured extension featuring screens and Arabic script planned for the rear of the building, The Sun reported.
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The red-brick Gatehouse was constructed for Norwich brewers in 1934, replacing a 19th-century pub. It was given Grade II-listed status in 2015.
The pub closed three years ago following the death of its landlord and was later purchased by the local Muslim association. CGI images submitted with the application show glass-fronted prayer and function halls overlooking gardens and the nearby river, according to the publication.
CAMRA raises concerns over historic pub
The proposals have drawn opposition from some local residents, who fear the development could increase the number of cars parked on surrounding streets. Campaigners have also raised concerns about the loss of a traditional British pub.
{{/usCountry}}The proposals have drawn opposition from some local residents, who fear the development could increase the number of cars parked on surrounding streets. Campaigners have also raised concerns about the loss of a traditional British pub.
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Richard Dixon, a member of the Norwich and District branch of Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA), said,“Norwich has lost many pubs over the years, to either be knocked down or redeveloped.
“There are now large areas of the city that have few or even no pubs. The changes to the outside would change the character of the listed building," he told The Sun
“The Gatehouse was well liked and used by the community for socialising, drinking, music and pub games. It should be retained for use as a public house," he added.
Residents object to proposed mosque conversion
The application, submitted by Norwich Muslim Centre, has received nine objections and one public comment supporting the proposed transformation.
One objector wrote, “I am horrified to read that the listed Gatehouse pub is to be turned into a Mosque.
“We have lost far too many of our pubs and in many cases when a mosque takes on a pub the end result is serious disrepair of the historic building or demolition.
“This must not be allowed to happen. There is no need or justification for another mosque in Norwich.”
Another objection focused on parking, with a resident saying the change could result in more vehicles being parked on local roads and have a “detrimental impact to the area”.
Supporters say mosque could save historic building
Supporters of the proposal argue that converting the former pub would preserve the historic building while creating a community facility designed to bring people together.
A statement submitted as part of the application said: “Our dream is to create a community hub that not only provides a space for worship but also empowers the next generation with strong Islamic identity, promotes interfaith engagement and tackles misconceptions about Muslims.”
Another person supporting the plans wrote: “I welcome the use to which this building will be put and have already been part of a community event. It was delightful.
“The respect the mosque expressed for the architecture is great and as long as changes respect the history I think permission should be given.”
Traffic plan submitted with application
Sirajul Islam, a trustee of the Norwich Muslim Community Association, said a detailed traffic management plan had been prepared, with nearby parking options identified.
“There is another mosque located nearby, and the two facilities will work together positively by accommodating worshippers across both sites," he said.
Sirajul said the character of the listed building would be preserved, with the multi-purpose hall at the rear of the former pub being the only significant change.
Norwich City Council has not yet made a decision on the application.
Similar mosque plan draws opposition in London
The Norwich proposal comes after residents of Queen’s Park in north-west London criticised plans to replace a former pub with a 13-storey “mega-mosque”.
Some residents have said the proposed building would look “out of place” in the area and “dwarf” the nearby church.