Plans to build a larger, purpose-built masjid in Romford have sparked debate locally, as supporters rally backing ahead of a key council decision.
Havering Islamic Centre has submitted proposals to redevelop a site on South Street into a new masjid as its current premises is due to be lost after the council’s compulsory purchase order linked to wider redevelopment plans.
The application has attracted opposition from some political figures and local campaigners, prompting supporters to launch a petition urging Havering Council to approve the plans.
Backers argue that the development would help ease overcrowding, strengthen community cohesion, and provide structured activities for young people.
While some objections have centred on traffic and parking, supporters argue historically such concerns have sometimes masked wider unease about mosque developments.
“We believe there have been agitators encouraging objectors, the council needs to know there are many thousands of supporters in the community,” said a masjid spokesperson.
Community leaders are now encouraging residents to make their views known before the consultation deadline this Friday, warning that public support could play a decisive role in the planning outcome.
Havering Islamic Centre mosque — a community-focused masjid
Planning permission has been sought for the partial demolition of the existing building and its extension to create a replacement mosque and cultural centre, alongside on-site parking, landscaping and improvements to nearby pedestrian infrastructure
“We are currently the only masjid in the borough with full consent to operate all salahs including taraweeh. We need to cater for not just the resident population but also those that work in Romford town centre which has many major employers such as Queens Hospital and Havering Council,” said the spokesperson.
The new centre would function as more than a place of worship, providing a community space, as well as social welfare facilities including food bank, soup kitchen and madrasah with other services aimed at the Muslim and wider community
“For local families this means hugely improved facilities, especially for women. Additionally this will be the only mosque in the borough that offers ghusl facilities,” added the masjid spokesperson.
