A CHARITY hopes to transform a disused warehouse into Nelson's first Islamic primary school.

Fountains of Knowledge is hoping to accommodate up to 100 children by August 2008 at the independent school after buying a former factory in Norfolk Road two months ago.

The charity, funded by donations and based in Netherfield Road, has raised £35,000 of the £250,000 needed to renovate the former Eureka building.

Plans for the 1,000 square metre building include eight classrooms, two assembly/prayer halls, a library and a playground.

Sajad Rana, chairman of the charity, said the school's objective was not to take children away from the nearby infant and primary schools, which have predominantly Muslim pupils.

And he said the school, called Al Ikhlaas Primary school, would encourage integration by teaching pupils to understand and respect other religions.

Mr Rana, a software developer and former teacher, said: "We do not anticipate any problems with the planning permission.

"The school started about seven years ago when a few friends of mine with children wanted to exercise their right to educate their children according to what they felt was most appropriate.

"It started in someone's house in Nelson. At the moment it operates on a part-time basis.

"I think it will not increase segregation because the children will be taught Islamic values correctly.

"It will help them understand how to interact with people from different backgrounds and religions.

"I have found that even in secular school that the English children do not associate with others and these schools are supposed to encourage integration.

"It is not our objective to take children away from schools nearby.

"It is the parents responsibility if they want to send their children to a school that has a particular ethos."

The charity has put in the first planning application to Pendle Council to replace the asbestos roof of the building with artificial grey slates.

This will be decided on by the council by December 15.

A further planning application for the change of use will follow in a few weeks.