A NEW site for a controversial mosque in Clitheroe has been unveiled by council chiefs.

But traffic problems could once again jeopardise the plans, it has emerged.

Muslim leaders and senior councillors have identified a possible site on Ribble Valley Council land, next to the former council depot, off Kirkmoor Road.

Councillors will discuss proposals to buy the land and develop the mosque on the site at next Tuesday's meeting of the council's policy and finance committee.

A report by council chief executive David Morris describes traffic access to the site as the 'main constraint' to any development.

Last August, councillors gave plans for a mosque in Holden Street the thumbs down for the fourth time on the grounds of traffic congestion and noise disturbance, even though it would have been sited in a terrace house and used by only 15 worshippers.

Since June this year, Muslims have been using the council chamber in Ribble Valley Town Hall, Clitheroe, once a week for prayers.

Plans to build a mosque in the town have met opposition -- not just for traffic reasons. Earlier this year, BNP supporters picketed the first prayer session at the town hall, claiming a mosque was not needed in the town.

The chief executive's report states: "The only access is via the Castle View and Bawdlands bridge junction, which has extremely sub-standard visibility to the left when entering Castle View using the right turn.

"Highway safety will be an important consideration at the planning stage if the council decides to sell the land."

Council leader John Hill described the application as 'possibly the last opportunity' for a mosque in Clitheroe. He added: "It's important that everybody is fully aware of the implications and I would urge residents to make their representations."

Coun Alan Yearing said: "I don't feel there is a particular problem with it, however there may be some concerns about access. There's only one way in and out, and that could cause traffic issues."