A MUSLIM organisation wants to build an education centre at a former factory site in a Derbyshire village.

Rumours had spread that the former Glow-worm site in Foundry Lane, Milford, could be turned into a mosque.

But Derbyshire Investments, which owns the land, said this was not the case, although it had been contacted by a Muslim organisation regarding plans for an "education centre with room for boarding".

The landowners are also in talks with a firm of house-builders.

People living nearby site the site it would be better used for a doctor's surgery, a dentist's or for shops but they were keen to see the building demolished as it was an eyesore.

David Gill, a director of Derbyshire Investments, said the education centre idea would be a last resort.

He said: "I was contacted by a Muslim organisation from Manchester.

"They were interested in building a religious education centre which would have room for boarding as well.

"It was just an inquiry but they asked if we would sell the site to them.

"I am currently in negotiations with Bryant Homes about building houses on the site. The education centre would be a last resort."

Mr Gill said he could not recall the name of the Manchester group but that it was looking at sites other than Foundry Lane.

He said: "Milford was seen as an ideal spot because of the peaceful setting by the river.

"It would be a centre where people stay for week-long courses to learn about the Muslim faith."

Mr Gill said he had received several phone calls from people who did not want a mosque in the area.

He said: "They wouldn't build a mosque there because there wouldn't be anyone to go there. People would presumably come from outside the area to visit the education centre."

Martin Clewley, 25, of Bridge View, which overlooks the site, said he believed the building should become a surgery or a dental clinic.

He said: "These are both things that are needed in the area.

"I'm not sure there is much need for a religious education centre, be it for Muslims, Christians or whoever."

Jason Coughlan, 31, of Foundry Lane, agreed that it would be better to use the site for something which served Milford.

He said: "An education centre is better than a mosque because of the parking problems that would cause.

"I think it would be best as shops or a community centre, or just as open space.

"Whatever they bring in will be better than it is now, because it's an eyesore."

Amber Valley Borough Council said it had not received a planning application to use the site for religious purposes.

Derek Stafford, assistant director for planning and regeneration, said: "We have also not made any arrangements to meet with either Mr Gill or any potential applicant regarding development.

"We would emphasise that the building has been safeguarded for business and employment use."