Major housing proposals and plans to move a mosque have left Muslims feeling anxious for the future.

Braintree Council’s development aspirations for the town include dozens of new homes in the South Street area, as well as the relocation of the district’s only mosque.

At a recent council meeting, there was talk of regenerating the council-owned area of Silks Way and has also moving the mosque.

Secretary of the Al-Falah Braintree Islamic Centre Sikander Sleemy said: “We’re quite anxious with regards to what will happen.

“We’re happy for any area to be regenerated to boost the local economy, as long as the council doesn’t forget we’re an integral part of the community.”

Chairman Abdul Gafoor added: “This is the only place we have in the area.

“The next nearest mosque is Chelmsford.”