A FAR right demonstration is set to be opposed by members of unions, faith groups and political parties.

A second English Defence League march is planned in Chelmsford for Saturday, but the group is set to come up against opposition.

The EDL will be in the city centre to make its feelings known on a planning application to rebuild the Muslim Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaat of Essex, which is behind the Royal Mail office, in Victoria Road.

Although the group has permission for a three-story building, the latest plan could see a four-storey community centre built for the Muslim group.

About 30 EDL members took to the streets of Chelmsford on July 21.

The demo lasted about two hours and three men were arrested on suspicion of committing a racially aggravated public order offence.

The trio were later bailed until September 9.

After the march, details were posted on the Essex EDL Facebook page of another protest on August 18 and a statement sent from Essex EDL to the Weekly News said “the Essex division protests against the mosque proposals as it is felt at a local level this is not needed nor wanted”.

But Chelmsford TUC has rallied supporters to march on the same day.

Andrew Coburn, chairman of the Chelmsford branch, said: “We are pleased so many people and organisations from across the community have come out in support of this initiative.”

Simon Burns, Chelmsford MP, has sent a letter backing the action of the group marching against the EDL.

His letter is expected to praise the anti-EDL movement and say he is appalled at any attempt to inflame race relations in Chelmsford.