Councillors set to approve application for mosque and community centre in Staffordshire

Stafford Muslim Community Centre Ltd’s application to convert a former industrial unit on land off Sandyford Street in Stafford into a place of worship and community centre has been recommended for approval by planning officers at Stafford Borough Council.

If the plans are approved, facilities will include an outbuilding for mortuary use, as well as a first floor classroom and onsite parking. The site earmarked for the change of use does not include the former Sandonia Cinema building however and the proposal is not considered to adversely impact the setting of the non-designated heritage asset, a report to the council’s planning committee said.

The proposal has been called in for consideration by the council’s planning committee by ward councillor Louise Nixon, due to residents’ concerns about flooding and parking. Committee members will consider the application at their latest meeting on Wednesday (December 10).

Stafford Borough Council has received 42 objections to the proposal. Objectors have said there are already parking and congestion issues in the area, and have also raised concerns about flood risk, noise and privacy for neighbouring residents.

A Charnley Road resident said: “While community facilities are welcome in principle, this development should be open and accessible to the wider community. As currently described, the proposal risks reducing social cohesion by serving only a narrow group, contrary to the aim of fostering inclusive communities in the Local Plan and National Planning Policy Framework.”

A Sandon Road resident said: “Traffic in the area is already overly congested; there is a school and families here and this increases the risk of accidents. I have owned my house for seven years and parking has got worse – it’s a nightmare when you need a tradesman.”

There have also been 39 responses in support of the proposal and its community use. A Weeping Cross resident said: “The current prayer hall does great work for its congregation and the wider community – very pleased that they’ve found a suitable new location.”

A Brocton resident and active member of the Muslim community in Stafford said: “For many years we have sought a suitable facility that can serve as a place of worship, a cultural hub and a support centre for both Muslims and the wider community. This proposal is not just about meeting religious needs – it is about creating a welcoming space that benefits everyone in Stafford.

“This community centre is not just for Muslims. We envision a multifunctional space open to all, providing educational and cultural events to foster understanding and cohesion, health and wellbeing initiatives such as free medical check ups and mental health support, youth engagement programmes to provide a positive environment for young people (and) social support for the elderly and vulnerable, regardless of background and faith.”