AN Islamic centre in Bewsey will remain open as a place of worship following a decision by Warrington Borough Council.

The Warrington Islamic Cente, on Lockton Lane, has been open since 2000 when the building was first rented from the council by the Warrington Islamic Association.

Association chairman Amer Siddiq since decided to purchase the building in the hope it could carry on running as before.

Use of the building involves daily prayer taking place five times each day and a special Friday prayer that attracts about 150 people.

In addition Mr Siddiq sought consent to continue using the other half of the building as a community sports hall, which is used by up to 500 members.

The planning committee also agreed on Wednesday to proposed changes to the outside of the building, which will include a new single storey extension.

Mr Siddiq consulted residents before submitting the application, with 40 neighbours attending a meeting to hear more about the plans.

The centre allows the elderly, women and other smaller Arab, Pakistani and Libyan communities to meet on a regular basis.

Staff also aim to increase cultural and Islamic integration among the non Muslim community.