'Community tension' fears as mosque planned for high-crime zone
A mosque is poised to be built in Walsall's highest crime area despite police fears it will cause 'tension' in the community.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Association UK wants to convert a warehouse and offices in Vicarage Place, Caldmore, into a place of worship.
Planning officers at Walsall Council have now recommended the proposal be given the green light.
While West Midlands Police has not officially opposed the scheme the force has raised concerns.
A planning report states: "There is an awareness that there may be increased community tension from the local community and other organisations opposed to this type of development.
"This is the highest crime area in Walsall so security measures are recommended."
Dozens of people have lodged objections with the council including two petitions which between them have been signed by more than 50 people.
Their main concern has been stated as: "The mosque will only be used by one part of the community which will create further community tensions. Community cohesion should be considered."
But a council officer who has reviewed the development concluded there are no planning grounds to refuse a mosque in principal.
They have also declared a Government planning inspector ruled the site suitable for a place of worship when a separate bid was put forward previously.
Their report said: "The proposals are being considered as a place of worship and community facility so reference to the different religious sectors is not a material planning consideration.
"There are concerns about community cohesion but this is also not a material planning consideration.
"Objections to the fact that there are already sufficient mosque's in the Caldmore area is not a material consideration as there is no policy restricting the number of mosques or community facilities in an area.
"The principle of the use has already been considered to be appropriate for this site as determined by the appeal."
A statement from the AMA said: "The policy of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association UK is to create strong links to the local community, to remove prejudices and aid interfaith co-operation. The position of this development is ideally sited close to other religious site to allow this to happen."
