Six classroom roof extension at Masjid-E-Gausia, Chester Street, Blackburn

“This full planning application is for “Proposed alterations and raising of existing roof above existing two storey building to form 6 classrooms”.”

“The proposal seeks to convert the existing main hipped roof to a dual pitched form together with raising the existing roof height by approximately 350mm. Dormer additions are proposed to both roof slopes creating six classrooms on a second floor for the educational / extra-curricular provision currently offered at the facility.”

“The application site relates to the Jamia Ghosia Mosque and Academy which is positioned on the eastern side of Chester Street, Blackburn. It provides a Place of Worship and Madrassa education facilities which serves the local Muslim community.”

“The surrounding is area is predominately residential in nature comprising of a diverse housing stock. Directly south-east lies Audley Sports and Community Centre which is owned and under the control of the Jamia Ghosia Mosque Committee. Just beyond the rear of the host property are the play areas associated with St Matthew’s School. It should be noted that the applicant (i.e.”

“10/85/1953 - Construction of mosque with car parking and new vehicular access. Approved, 14 th January 1986. • 10/87/0172 - Creation of a 1st floor within the existing building and the erection of a new external metal emergency staircase. Approved, 13 th March 1987. • 10/93/0814 - Erection of extension to mosque. Approved, 27 th September 1993.”

“February 2014. • 10/14/0847 - New minar and single storey extension at main entrance and double storey extension to side elevation. Refused 13 th November 2014. • 10/15/0183 - Proposed side double storey and single storey extensions with minat tower. Approved, 20 th April 2025. • 10/19/0777 - Single storey extension to form enlarged library. Approved, 29 th…”

“In terms of noise impacts (i.e. inside and outside the building, comings and goings), it is not considered that the relatively modest increase in floor space for classroom use would have any unacceptable impacts on neighbouring amenity when compared to that which can be caused by the existing arrangements.”

“However, as identified in the supporting statement it points out that much of the footfall associated with the madrassa element is captured by those arriving by walking from nearby residential dwellings, and this will continue following the proposed extension. Nevertheless, the proposal has the potential to cause an intensification of highways movement and parking through further drop off and pick up of attending pupils.”

“In response to the Local Planning Authority public consultation, a petition of support has been received containing 220 signatures. The petition grounds of support stated, ‘the additional classrooms are much needed to serve the existing worshippers and would provide our children with adequate space…”

“Notwithstanding the submitted details, prior to commencement of the development hereby approved, a Travel Plan shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The Travel Plan shall provide details of the objectives, targets and measures to promote and facilitate public transport use, walking, cycling and practices/facilities to reduce the need to travel and to reduce car use.”

“Prior to first occupation of the development hereby approved, the disabled parking spaces, motorcycle bays, covered cycle area and pedestrian crossings as shown on drawing no.03, rev B – Proposed Second Floor Plan shall be implemented, and thereafter permanently retained.”

“Decision under Town and Country Planning Acts and Regulations –”

“Planning and Highways Committee Thursday, 19th June, 2025 RESOLVED – Approved subject to the conditions highlighted in the Director’s Report…”