RESIDENTS will protest against what they have called "parking Jihad" after council officers backed proposals to have a mosque in the heart of Tilehurst.

Neighbours previously claimed the village will "be destroyed" if Reading Borough Council accepts a planning application to turn Equity House in School Road into a place of worship.

Councillors have been advised to accept the proposals at a planning committee meeting on Wednesday, April 25 and furious residents will hold a peaceful demonstration on Saturday, April 21.

One organiser, who asked to remain anonymous, said: "We want to cause hassle and raise awareness.

"There is a car park around the corner but we know from experience that won't happen.

"It's called parking Jihad. They will park around the mosque and double park and cause trouble."

Residents will be supported by Gavin Bobby, a planning lawyer who specialises in the building and expansion of mosques in the UK.

He goes by the name of 'Mosque Buster' on social media.

The official planning application was submitted by Zainabiya Welfare Foundation (ZWF), which currently owns the building.

The group said the building will be used as a community centre and will not be a dedicated mosque.

Mumtaz Ali, trustee of ZWF, previously admitted he was shocked by some of the comments made by residents.

He told the Chronicle: "The application is for a community centre. It is not just for a mosque.

"Anyone is welcome to come and join us, from all religions.

"The building will be used for a family community centre for around 40 families.

"The council knows about the parking situation but there is a council owned car park with 96 spaces very nearby which we can park in."

Speaking today, (Wednesday), he added: "I'm not going to be there. I don't understand why they are going to protest when I'm not even going to be there.

"If they want to come and talk to me I will make them a cup of tea and a nice dinner and talk to them.

"All I have to say is god bless them."

The demonstration will begin at 2pm.

A Facebook page has been set up urging residents against the proposals to get involved.

Residents have informed Thames Valley Police.