`‘PLANS’ to turn an old lighthouse in Burnham-on-Sea into a mosque has sparked a lively debate on social media.

A poster has been pinned to a tree in Gore Road inviting residents to attend a meeting to discuss ‘Burnham’s lighthouse mosque development’.

And as no planning application for a place of worship has been lodged with Sedgemoor District Council, locals think this is just a wind-up.

The poster states: “Following the recent sale of Burnham-on-Sea’s historic lighthouse to a supposed wealthy investor, it has emerged that the historic lighthouse has allegedly applied to be converted into a mosque.

“Built in the 1830s, this building is a local landmark and we want to gather resident’s opinions on this proposal.

“There are many issues surrounding this, which we would like to put forward to the council.

Somerset County Gazette:

“While we welcome new developments to the town, some residents have already expressed concerns, whereas others have welcomed the proposal with open arms.”

The poster claims the meeting will be held at the Bay Centre in Cassis Close, offering refreshments including ‘halal options’.

While the poster also lists a number of ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ about a mosque development, one person has said: “I suspect this has done its job – stirring up race/religious arguments.”

A picture of the poster was posted into the Highbridge and Burnham Discussion group, prompting many people to wade in and offer their views.

One added: “This is blatantly fake news. I don't see what the intention of this poster is, apart from to incite hate. Someone has already said that no such application has been made to Sedgemoor, does anyone know if the bay club have received a booking for the date given? If so, I'm wondering if it is a stunt by someone like Britain first?”

Another added: “The intolerance of some people in this group is sickening.”

A spokesman for The Bay Centre said there is no booking for the mosque debate on August 16 in their calendar.