Plans to build the largest mosque in Britain have been rejected by the Government.
The controversial plans would have seen the creation of a 9,300 capacity mosque in Newham, East London, with space for another 2,000 worshippers in a separate hall.
However, the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has agreed with Newham Council that building the mosque would have stopped the development of new housing.
‘Ministers have today dismissed appeals on the refusal of planning permission for a mosque in the London borough of Newham,’ said a DCLG spokesperson.
‘The decision was based on concerns that include local housing provision and conflict with the council’s local plan for the borough.
‘It also took account of the evidence from all parties and is in line with the council’s original determination and advice from the independent planning inspector on the main appeal.’
Newham Council said it welcomed the decision, saying the site has the space to accommodate over 1,100 homes, new retail and office space, and generate a number of jobs.
Cllr Ken Clark, cabinet member for building communities, public affairs, regeneration and planning, said; ‘Newham Council has tried to work with the Trust for more than a decade to create a plan that would benefit all residents by providing much needed jobs, homes and community space.
‘But repeatedly the Trust has broken its promises and delayed the inevitable. It is now time that this site is made thoroughly safe and developed appropriately so that it can provide vital facilities for the whole community of Newham.’
