Controversial plans to scrap part of a pay and display to make way for a mosque have been delayed because of concerns about parking.

The Kent Muslim Welfare Association (KMWA) hopes to build a new landmark place of worship to replace the mosque in Canterbury Street, Gillingham.

The centre, which will feature a 92ft minaret, will replace part of Croneens car park next to Gillingham railway station.

More than 50 letters were sent to Medway Council from people opposing the development. Commuters who use the council-run car park are angry about the loss of spaces, while residents are worried about cars being parked outside their homes.

Despite objections, council officers recommended approval but councillors have delayed a decision because members of the planning committee echoed residents’ concerns.

Medway Council said further negotiations will take place before a decision is made.

Anwar Khan, of KMWA, said: “We are disappointed about the delay. We will be having further discussions with council officers and we are very hopeful for a positive outcome.

“The number of people using the new mosque will be the same as the current one, where there is no parking facility. We have never had a complaint about parking or traffic there.”

The council plans to replace the lost parking spaces with a new 70-space car park. Planning permission was given in 2010 but no work has since started.