A former pub in Leicester will soon be transformed into a mosque, following planning approval that marks a significant milestone for the Eyres Monsell Muslim community.
Leicester City Council gave the green light to convert The Glen pub, which has stood empty since 2022, into a dedicated place of worship and community hub, Leicester Mercury reported.
The application, submitted by the Eyres Monsell Community Foundation, aims to provide a permanent home for the growing congregation, which has been operating out of the local community centre since 2018.
In addition to prayer space, the new centre will offer services such as a food bank open to all residents
“This building does not need to remain vacant,” a representative of the foundation told the planning committee. “This is a local proposal made by local people to benefit the local community.”
While the plan drew support from many, it also sparked objections from some local residents who raised concerns about traffic, parking, and noise.
Councillor Karen Pickering voiced these concerns during the meeting, citing worries about the site’s proximity to a school and shopping area. However, planning officers deemed the impact manageable and recommended approval.
The committee ultimately voted in favour of the proposal, with six votes for, two against, and one abstention.
Conditions attached to the approval include limits on opening hours and a ban on amplified calls to prayer, ensuring the site operates in harmony with the surrounding neighborhood.
Committee chair Yasmin Surti welcomed the decision, stating: “Bringing this disused property back into use is a positive step, and I encourage the foundation to work closely with residents to make this a success for all.”
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