The location of the proposed protest by the controversial English Defence League has been revealed.

The group, which says it is opposed to Islamic extremism, will gather in Humberstone Gate East, in Leicester city centre on Saturday, October 9.

A counter protest is also being planned by groups who accuse the EDL of using violent tactics.

Police officers visited businesses individually yesterday to inform them the area had been chosen as the site for the protests, which could involve several thousand people.

Senior officers believe the area, between Charles Street and the inner ring road, will be easier to police than other parts of the city centre.

Age Concern has decided to close its Clarence House base for the day.

Troy Young, the charity's assistant director in Leicestershire, said: "On Saturdays we usually have a lot of people in for breakfast and lunch and other activities.

"We've considered the potential risk to the safety of the people who use Clarence House and we will be closed.

"The day care services we provide for vulnerable older people will still be provided but at other venues."

Ibrahim Gokce, owner of the halal Leicester Butchers, said: "I asked the police 'why here?'. There are some ethnic minority businesses down here, so there is a concern.

"But the police officers said it's the best place to control it and I can see their point of view.

"Saturday is the busiest day for us but we are going to be closed."

Dave Sellars, of Highfields Taxis, said: "We hear the roads are going to be closed because of it so we're going to have to make alternative arrangements to stay open for business.

"Nobody down here wants this to happen but from what we've heard most of their protests are peaceful – we hope this one is, too."

Adam Kirk, project manager of the Independent Arts Centre, said the venue was going to invite people to take photographs or even paint the event as it unfolds.

He said: "We are a small venue and we rely on the sale of coffee to exist, so we will be staying open.

"We are concerned about the security but the police have assured us the day will be well policed."

The Home Office is considering an application by Leicester City Council for all groups' right to march to the site being suspended for a period.

A static protest however cannot be banned.

If the right to march is suspended, police officers will escort protestors to the site in groups.

Police and city council officials are in discussions with the EDL and its opponents to agree the exact timing of the protests. This will affect issues such as road closures.

Chief Superintendent Rob Nixon, commander of the city area of Leicestershire Constabulary, said: "The location for the proposed march or demonstration has not been an easy decision to make and clearly no site in Leicester is ideal for such an event.

"However, the police have a legal obligation to facilitate a peaceful protest and we need to balance the rights of protestors to demonstrate against the needs of businesses and the community."

Sheila Lock, chief executive of Leicester City Council, said: "The council, police and partner agencies are working together to ensure any protests on October 9 remain peaceful, and to reduce the amount of disruption in the city."

Bus companies will meet police and city council representatives on Monday to discuss changes to their routes.

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