A bid to convert a traditional church into a place of work for the Ismaili Muslim community is set to be decided by Trafford’s planning committee next week, in the face of 165 objections from residents.
The planning application for the current Woodlands United Reformed Church is for a two-storey infill extension to the existing internal courtyard.
There would also be an internal reconfiguration and new rear and front entrances as well as the blocking up of existing windows, the creation of new windows and new air conditioning units, landscaping and alterations to the car parking.
Residents have voiced "strong objections" to the claim that there would be no change of use of the building as it was approved as a place of worship for the local community.
“The new building will predominantly support a population outside the area,” one said.
Another said the building will be in operation at very different days and times which would be a "significant change".
“No information has been submitted regarding the frequency of events,” one is arguing.
“The planning application does not state the number of visitors.”
However, a design and access statement submitted to the planners states: “The proposal seeks to retain the building where possible, whilst maximising the building’s potential by infilling the central external courtyard with a new extension and reconfiguring the internal arrangement.”
Meanwhile, a second planning application for a single-storey extension to the Islamic Cultural Centre on Grove Lane in Hale will also be decided.
It seeks permission for the erection of an add-on to a prayer hall to replace an existing "unauthorised" extension.
Although there have been six objections, the scheme has been recommended for approval.
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