by Keyan Milanian

kmilanian@thekmgroup.co.uk

People living near a pub earmarked for redevelopment have been reassured parking will not be a problem.

The Rifleman, in Thorold Road, Chatham, could be converted to a community centre for Muslims and community groups if plans are given the thumbs up.

Developers have also applied for permission to build a one-storey extension for a kitchen.

The council has written to 16 neighbours and received four objections all thought to revolve around a lack of parking space.

Peter Hare, of Thorold Road said: “We think it could be difficult for parking here if it is accepted. 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.”

But John Alford, the agent for the applicant, based in Cooling, said the centre would not be linked to the mosque and those who used it were expected to walk to the building.

He said: “Parking should not be a problem because it was a pub before so there should be a similar number of cars parking in the area.

“But it is also a local community centre so we would expect people to walk there rather than drive.”

According to the application the building would provide “a social meeting centre for local Muslims”.

It will also be open to local non-Muslims for social events.

A drop-in group would be provided for the elderly and there would be provision for women’s social activities.

Groups or clubs using the centre would have to refrain from drinking alcohol.

Consultation is due to end on June 16 and a decision may be made by July 5.

For information on the proposal, email kinnairdo@hotmail.com