Plans to place a dome and minarets on a Great Harwood mosque have been rejected by a government inspector.

Hyndburn Council refused an application last year to extent the Ghosia Mosque, on Park Street, claiming the scheme was out of character for the area and would have a negative impact on neighbours.

The council’s decision has now been upheld by inspector Nigel McGurk following an appeal.

In his report he said the size of the development would have a ‘harmful impact’ on the area.

He also said there was no evidence provided to show the majority of nearby residents were in support of the scheme.

Under the plans, the dome and minarets, denoting symbols of Islam and a place of prayer, would have been manufactured out of steel or fibreglass and would have been green with turquoise and gold motifs.

The Mosque Committee said the majority of patrons live on the same street or within walking distance and that a lack of car parking facilities would not be an issue.