A proposed expansion of Tividale Mosque in Gate Street, which would see the building’s floorspace more than triple, has hit a roadblock over parking issues. Sandwell Council’s planning committee delayed a decision on the application last week, citing concerns about the limited number of parking spaces provided.
The mosque’s plans include expanding the floorspace to 1,280 square metres, featuring a new dome and minarets, alongside additional facilities such as classrooms, a mortuary, and more prayer space. However, the mosque’s application accounts for only 15 parking spaces, far below the 230 spaces that planning officers estimate would be necessary based on the building’s size.
During the committee meeting on June 10, councillors voted to postpone their verdict and opted for a site visit to better understand the local impact. The mosque insists the expansion will not increase the size of its congregation, with most worshippers arriving on foot.
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Architect Martin Faulkner noted that an alternative smaller, single-storey design requiring 80 parking spaces had been proposed, but expansion plans remain for the future. A correction was also acknowledged regarding the expected number of worshippers at Friday prayers; the application initially stated 800 but the actual number is closer to 80, meaning parking requirements might be lower, though still substantial at approximately 160 spaces during peak times.
Labour councillor Rizwan Jalil, representing Oldbury, supported the project, emphasizing that the expansion is to modernize an existing community facility without significantly increasing visitor numbers or parking demand. Local councillor Maria Crompton observed no parking difficulties in the area during her experience.
Nonetheless, the official planning report recommended refusal, warning that the increase in floorspace would likely attract more worshippers, causing parking to spill into surrounding residential streets, increasing congestion and nuisance for local residents.