A mini Muslim prayer centre is being planned for a former shop in Frenchwood.

The building on the corner of Carlton Drive and the Boulevard has been subject to previous planning applications.

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Tempers flared when previous proposals in November last year were accused by nearby residents of being for a ‘stealth mosque’ and not a community centre as outlined in plans.

Public meetings were held and led to the plans being withdrawn in December last year.

A new proposal on behalf of Miss Nazia Shah outlines how the new prayer facility would work.

Boulevard Community Group’s documents state: “The proposal would provide a prayer facility for a small number of residents of Muslim faith who reside in surrounding residential streets.

“The proposal would allow for prayers in the afternoon/evening and in the winter period, the early morning prayer (between 7am and 10pm).

“In this respect, the proposal is unlike mosques which are required to make provision for all the five daily prayers.

“The rationale behind the proposal is to allow those people who live in the local area, to have a facility without needing to travel further afield.

“Furthermore, there is no intention to use the site for the typically busy Juma (Friday lunchtime prayer) and nor is any education (Madrassah) provision or other ceremonies or events proposed.

“Users will be expected to arrive on foot and reside in surrounding residential streets.”

It goes on to state the five daily prayers are performed based on the position of the sun and last no more than 15 minutes.

The building is expected to accommodate up to 12 people praying at one time.

You can view the proposals on the Preston City Council website and comments can be left there.

You can also leave your views in the comments below