Fury as Muslim centre plans to convert Grade II-listed pub into a mosque – ‘I am horrified
Objectors argue the new place of worship will lead to further traffic congestion while others say their city cannot afford to lose another historic pub.
The historic pub could be turned into a place of worship (Image: Google)
A Muslim centre has revealed plans to convert a Grade II-listed pub into a mosque. The proposal would see the historic building transformed into a place of worship and community centre with space for more than 200 people.
The Norwich Muslim Centre has submitted plans to convert the Gatehouse pub, which has been empty since 2023 following the death of its owner, into a mosque. However, a number of locals have objected to the plans, with one saying they have “horrified him”. Others have raised concerns about increased traffic congestion in the area in and around Dereham Road while others note fears that Norwich could lose yet another historic boozer.
As reported by GB News, one objector said: “I am horrified to read that the listed Gatehouse pub is to be turned into a mosque.” They also argued that too many pubs have disappeared and insisted there is no justification for another mosque in the city.
A second added: “As it is, the cars parked along Dereham Road from Bowthorpe Road to Waterworks Road on a Friday lunchtime is horrendous.”
However, some people support the addition of the mosque. They praise the plan’s respect for the building’s architecture and insisted permission should be given to build the place of worship.
One person wrote: “I welcome the use to which this building will be put and have already been part of a community event. It was delightful.”
The new Muslim centre will have space for over 200 people (Image: -)
The Norwich Muslim Centre hopes the mosque will become a community hub, offering both a place of worship while also fostering interfaith dialogue and conversation.
Sirajul Islam, a trustee of the centre, said: “We are trying to emphasise working with the community. The purpose is to bring people together. We want to share it with everyone.”
The plans outline a rear extension to the building, which dates back to 1935, as well as a hall space to accomodate celebrations and festivals. It will be able to accomodate for over 200 people.
However, the Norwich and District branch of CAMRA, a voluntary organisation that promotes local pubs in the UK, has objected the plans. They argue the historic pub forms parts of the city’s heritage and must not be replaced.
