From the http://www.kentonline.co.uk 25 May 2010. By Keyan Milanian

Chatham pub's call to Muslim prayer

A former pub's boozy past might have to be swiftly forgotten after an application to convert it into a Muslim community centre was submitted to the council.

Consultation started on May 10 after an application was submitted to Medway council to convert the "Rifleman" pub, in Thorold Road, Chatham into a no-alcohol centre for both Muslims and community groups.

The council sent letters to 15 homes on May 14 and has so far received one objection.

It is unclear what the objection is.

Peter Hare, who has lived in Thorold Road for about 25 years, said he had sent his feedback form back this week and also objected to the plans.

He has concerns about parking in the area.

He said: "We think it could be difficult for parking here if it is accepted. It has been quite easy to park out here recently but we think it could be a problem.

"There is a mosque along the end of the road and on Fridays it can be very difficult to park around there.

"We are also a bit worried about the noise it could cause."

The "Rifleman" pub closed about 18 months ago and has been derelict since.

The application also seeks permission for a one storey extension for a kitchen at the back of the property.

According to the application the building would 'provide a social meeting centre for local Muslims' but will also be open to local non-Muslim residents for social events.

A drop in group would be provided for the elderly and women's social activities while the centre would also provide welfare and assistance for bereaved families.

The only restriction on groups or clubs using the centre would be that no alcohol would be permitted on site.

The proposal adds that the centre would be used to 'provide an environment to create a better understanding of Muslims in the wider context of a multi culture and religions background in the community'.

The agent for the application, John Alford Chartered Architects, based in Cooling, were unavailable for comment.