AN UNAUTHORISED mosque and a shop already being built could both be refused planning permission tomorrow.

Although both applications are retrospective, in each case this was only discovered when planning officers visited the sites concerned.

In Manningham, Bradford, applicant Raj Mohammad Khan wants permission to use the old Emerald publishing company building in Toller Lane as a mosque and madrassa.

A report by planning officers says: "While this application states that the premises are vacant, and have been since 2006, it is clear from a site visit that the mosque/madrassa is in active operation, which is confirmed by signage around the property."

Planning documents show that a further letter from Mr Khan concedes the building is in use and the application is retrospective.

But the report by planning officers urges councillors to refuse permission for this use, citing a raft of parking and highway concerns.

Meanwhile, in nearby Girlington, applicant Tariq Mahmood is seeking permission to build a two-storey shop in Duckworth Lane, where work has started.

But Mr Mahmood could be made to tear down the walls already built, as the scheme is recommended for refusal.

The shop would join on to an existing takeaway, and is being built on land that used to serve as the restaurant's seating area.

Although the application form states that work has not yet started on the shop, planning officers again said they found work had begun when they visited.

Their report says: "At the time of the site visit, the walling at the ground floor level of the unit was nearing completion."

Officers are recommending the plan be refused, saying the applicant's claims that the building materials will match the existing takeaway are "inaccurate".

The report says: "In terms of walling material, the submitted plan specifies 'stone to match existing'.

"Development has commenced on site and the stone used, although of a similar colour, does not match the existing building as it is of a different block size and has a pitched face."

Officers also list concerns about highways safety and the building being too overbearing.

The two plans are among six being decided by Bradford Area Planning Panel.

Applicants look set to get a rough ride at the meeting, with all but one of the six plans being recommended for refusal.

Other plans which councillors are urged to turn down include a bid by the Bradford Bazaar in Cemetery Road, to extend its opening hours, and a plan for three restaurants or cafes and four flats at the former Waggoners Inn pub in Halifax Road, Bradford.

The meeting at Bradford City Hall starts at 10am.

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