An abandoned pub in Worcester Park will now be the venue for a series of public consultations into plans to turn it into an Islamic community centre.

The Shia Ismaili Community, a branch of Islam led by the Aga Khan, said the Worcester Park Tavern was the best place to explain their proposals, originally planned for St Mary’s Church.

In a statement the group said: “We have received some requests from local residents and businesses with queries as to the exact usage of the building as well as parking arrangements.

“We therefore feel that it would be more useful to host the consultation at the proposed site so that initial thoughts on plans can be shared and demonstrated more clearly.

“We are very keen to alleviate any concerns that residents may have over the proposals and look forward to discussing these during the consultation weekend.”

The group, whose members live in Worcester Park, Surbiton, Kingston and Wimbledon, had been renting a school hall in Sheen for 25 years but want a permanent premise for exercise classes, seniors’ day clubs and quiet meditation.

The events will be held in the Worcester Park Tavern in Park Terrace on Friday, October 11, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm and on Saturday, October 12, from 10am to 4.30pm.