Plans to convert ex-dance studio into Bangladeshi prayer centre

Plans have been lodged to convert a disused dance studio in Hartlepool into a place of prayer and worship.

Proposals have been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council by the Bangladeshi Cultural Association to convert the former dance studio at 77b Murray Street.

A design and access statement from ASP associates, on behalf of the applicant, states the proposals would benefit the area.

It said: “The building has had a multitude of uses over the years but the more recent use has been a dance school over the two floors.

“Unfortunately, this proved to be unsuccessful and the Bangladeshi Cultural Association has purchased the property.

“This property has remained vacant due to the former dance school closing, and rather than falling into a state of disrepair, the Bangladeshi Cultural Association has taken this over and hope to use it for regular prayer meetings for the area in general.”

The plans involve converting two areas at ground and first floor level from meeting rooms to be used for regular prayers on a daily basis.

The ground floor would also feature a kitchen, toilets, including disabled facilities, a new main entrance archway, dormer window, rear fire exit and accessible entrance ramp. Occasionally functions may be held at the site.

The association previously had a site at 15 Murray Street which is now too small and has been superseded with the purchase of 77b Murray Street, according to planning documents.

It also states if approved the applicant intends to employ local labour for the project from within Hartlepool.

The design and access statement said people living nearby residents “have been brought into the conversation and a partition has been circulated around a number of the residential streets and a great deal of support has been given to the proposals.”

It also notes the proposals will not attract a multitude of cars as most people will be on foot or take lifts via taxis.

A decision is due to be made on the plans by the end of March.

To comment on the application visit the council planning portal online and search reference number H/2019/0505.