Public Invited to View Site of Proposed Stafford Muslim Community Centre

Members of the public are being invited to visit the site of the proposed Stafford Muslim Community Centre (SMCC) this weekend to learn more about the plans and vision for the facility. The open days are being held as the planning application for the project remains under consideration by Stafford Borough Council.

The SMCC is hosting guided tours of the site at 1 Sandyford Street, Stafford (ST16 3NF), this Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th October 2025, between 1 pm and 4 pm. The event is described as "Open to people of all faiths and backgrounds," offering a chance for visitors to ask questions, contribute ideas, and meet the Trustees behind the project.

The Planning Application The proposal (application reference 24/39419/FUL) seeks permission to convert a former industrial unit, previously occupied by Fulwood Roofing Supplies, into a place of worship and community centre. The application, which is currently marked as "Awaiting decision" by the council, includes plans for:

• A main prayer hall and a multi-purpose community hall.

• Ablution (wudu) facilities for men and women.

• Conversion of an existing mezzanine floor into a ladies' prayer room and classroom space.

• A single-storey extension for new entrances.

• A separate small outbuilding for temporary deceased holding (mortuary).

• On-site parking spaces, bin and bike storage, and external alterations.

  
  

The plans indicate the centre could accommodate up to 398 prayer mats. Expected attendance varies, with daily prayers attracting potentially 20-40 worshippers, rising significantly for Friday prayers (estimated up to 338 people), and potentially higher numbers during Ramadan and Eid festivals .

Parking Concerns Raised During the planning process, Staffordshire County Council's Highways department recommended the application be refused due to inadequate parking provision. Amended plans show 33 visitor parking spaces, 2 disabled spaces, and 6 staff spaces , which is fewer than the 40 visitor spaces plus staff parking required by the Borough Council's standards for a place of worship of this size . Highways noted the lack of parking restrictions on Sandyford Street and its existing heavy use for parking by nearby industrial units. The applicants submitted a Travel Plan aiming to promote sustainable travel.

Flooding and Other Considerations The site lies within Flood Zone 3 due to its proximity to Sandyford Brook. Concerns about flooding and parking were cited by Councillor Louise Nixon when she requested the application be "called-in" for a decision by the Planning Committee rather than officers.

Staffordshire County Council, acting as the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA), initially noted the site's flood risk but recommended approval subject to conditions, acknowledging that mitigation measures (like flood-resistant doors and raised electrics) were proposed . Severn Trent Water also commented, requesting clarification on drainage plans.

The SMCC Trustees state that addressing neighbours' concerns is an "utmost priority". The open days this weekend offer the community a chance to see the site and discuss the proposals directly.

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