PLANS have been submitted to convert an office building on Eign Street close to the junction of Victoria Street into a place of worship.

Matthew Lane from Weobley who is purchasing the traditional constructed three storey mid terrace building on behalf of an organisation has had to make an application to Herefordshire Council for a change of use from A2 to D1.

Currently there are a handful of objections on the council's planning portal including one from Hereford Civic Society. John Bothamley, who writes representing the views of the society, complains about "the very poorly presented application".

He references the 'ablution areas' and makes the assumption that the building's use is most likely to be for Muslim prayer, detailed in the application to be between the hours of 6am and 11pm.

He also makes comment about the "scant regard to building regulations" in the plans which include a bedsit studio for staff.

Markus Darby makes the point in his objection that Friar Street can become heavily congested on the school run, making it difficult for local residents to park their vehicles in their allocated spaces.

There is some concern about the parking provision for what is planned during peak prayer hours to total a requirement of twenty plus.

Benjamin Pardoe complains about the 'ambiguous' nature of the application: "The description of a place of worship is not enough," he said. "Further clarity is required so residents of Herefordshire can be clear on the exact nature of this application and its long-term effects."

Natural England has registered no objection to the change of use, based on the plans.

The consultation period is underway and comments are invited until April 18. The planning reference is P180365/F