PLANS to turn a vacant unauthorised mosque into four flats for vulnerable people have been put on hold.

They were due to be debated on Thursday by Burnley's development control committee.

But applicants Dorset-based A J Cole Properties Limited withdrew the proposal before councillors could discuss it.

The decision followed neighbour expressing fears it could create ‘unapproachable ghetto’.

The premises, on the corner of Burns Street and Belford Street in the Stoneyholme district of Burnley, are an unusually shaped end terrace building.

Formerly used as a mosque without planning permission they were originally two homes.

A planning officer's report had deemed the proposals to be acceptable in terms of appearance and had suggested approval.