The Norwich Muslim Centre has submitted plans to convert the Gatehouse pub, a Grade II-listed building that has been empty since 2023 following the death of its owner, into a mosque and community centre with space for more than 200 people.
Local objections over traffic and heritage
Several locals have objected to the plans. One objector said: 'I am horrified to read that the listed Gatehouse pub is to be turned into a mosque.' They argued that too many pubs have disappeared and insisted there is no justification for another mosque in the city.
Another added: 'As it is, the cars parked along Dereham Road from Bowthorpe Road to Waterworks Road on a Friday lunchtime is horrendous.' Others expressed fears that Norwich could lose another historic pub.
Support for the mosque plans
However, some people support the addition of the mosque, praising the plan's respect for the building's architecture and insisting permission should be given. One person wrote: 'I welcome the use to which this building will be put and have already been part of a community event. It was delightful.'
Community hub ambitions
The Norwich Muslim Centre hopes the mosque will become a community hub, offering a place of worship while fostering interfaith dialogue. Sirajul Islam, a trustee of the centre, said: 'We are trying to emphasise working with the community. The purpose is to bring people together. We want to share it with everyone.'
The plans outline a rear extension to the building, which dates back to 1935, as well as a hall space to accommodate celebrations and festivals, able to hold over 200 people.
CAMRA objects
The Norwich and District branch of CAMRA, a voluntary organisation that promotes local pubs, has objected to the plans, arguing that the historic pub forms part of the city's heritage and must not be replaced.
