It has been revealed that plans to build a new mosque in Reading are a step closer to reality after the final terms were agreed between the Labour controlled borough council and Muslim leaders.
The proposed mosque, which will cost
£4 million it is estimated, will be built on land provided by Reading Borough Council on the corner of Wokingham Road and Green Road, close to the Thames Valley University campus.
We understand “provided” in this context means “free”!
We further learn that facilities will include a main prayer house, washing facilities, smaller prayer houses, a library, a conference room, classrooms for male and female students, a meeting centre for older people and parking for over a hundred vehicles.
Protracted negotiations between the Council and leaders of the Muslim community have culminated in consensus as to the terms and specific wording of the agreement. Solicitors acting on behalf of both parties have now been instructed to conclude arrangements as quickly as possible, we are told.
When complete the building – which is described as “classical in design with a silver dome in the centre” – will serve as a social as well as a religious focus for Readsing’s considerable Muslim community. Furthermore it will replace the Alexandra Road mosque which cannot cope with parking demand.
David Sutton, Reading Borough Labour Council Leader, said: “I am delighted that we have finally brought this long story to a successful conclusion. I wish the Muslim community every success in raising the necessary funds to build the new mosque; I know that they are confident that donors will soon come forward. This partnership between the council and the Muslims of Reading sends a strong message about community integration and social harmony in our town, and I am very proud about that. I look forward to the grand opening of another new Reading landmark.”
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