NEW designs for a £3million mosque that could be built in the city have been released as part of an official planning application.

The move has prompted a flurry of objections, with locals complaining about potential congestion and the design of the proposed building in Stanley Road.

Worcester Muslim Welfare Association (WMWA), which is behind the plans, declined to comment, although it did provide more details in its application.

It stated: "WMWA currently have worshipping facilities at premises on Tallow Hill, Worcester.

"However, the current facilities are no longer adequate for WMWA to fulfil their visions of creating an inclusive, accessible and integrated religious centre, which can be experienced by all.

"Due to the nature of the existing building, which has had numerous small additions, and a shortage of car parking, the building does not lend itself to its current use."

Mohammed Akmal, of Stanley Road, told the city council he was worried about the impact the project could have on congestion and parking in his street.

He said: "There is always over-parking. With the mosque being built this should only have access from Midland Road and not Stanley Road to alleviate any further traffic problems and congestion on this road."

Mr Akmal added that there is already a school, a community centre and a children's centre in Stanley Road.

Another man who lives in the road wrote: "The traffic and car parking is a major problem around here.

"Therefore, worship places should not be built around residential areas as it will aggravate the traffic and car parking situations.

"Recently, I received a penalty charge notice for parking on yellow line outside my house whilst unloading my car as there was no parking space available."

Sandra Mundy, of Hill Street, objected to the application because of the parking situation, although she argued that everyone deserves a place to worship.

Another objector thought the planned building was not in keeping with the rest of the city and compared it to the Hive library.

One opponent, Matthew Tulk, of Barnes Way, Worcester, wrote: "I think we have enough mosques in Worcester!

"And the proposed area for this mosque has heavy traffic already and adding this mosque will increase this as well as having more cars and taxis parked illegally all day every day."

However, there are some residents who have supported the mosque in the consultation.

Frans Wesselman, of Vincent Road, said: "Having seen the plans I think this would be an excellent use of the present semi-derelict site, the complex, as designed, an enhancement to the neighbourhood."

WMWA wants to build a mosque, four apartments, a sports centre and parking on land next to Stanley Road Primary School.

The overall development is expected to cost around £5million.

The English Defence League protested over the mosque plans.

The consultation ends on September 14.