Wembley Masjid and Islamic Centre, in Stanley Avenue, has applied for a certificate of lawfulness from Brent Council’s planning department after a recent sale of the building. The mosque’s bid for legal recognition is being objected by residents despite being in operation for several decades.
A former residential property, it received temporary consent to operate as a mosque and educational centre from December 1988 to December 1990. According to the applicant, Mohammad Khawaja, it has served the community since 1974.
Harrow Times, reported that in his application, Mr Khawaja noted this site is “one of the earlier mosques in Brent. It [meets] the needs and demands of the community and residents. The locals use and rely on this mosque – it adds to part of the local culture and social cohesion.”
Despite its longstanding operation, many living close to believe the mosque should not be given the certificate due to its impact on the surrounding area.
