A community has been left divided by controversial plans for a mosque in Brentwood.
The Gazette exclusively revealed plans by the Muslim community last week to purchase a commercial property for use as a permanent prayer and community centre at an unnamed location in Pilgrims Hatch. But while opposition is mounting against the plans, others have come forward to offer support to the Al Furqan Foundation – a 200-strong congregation which has outgrown the Sea Cadet Centre in King Edward Road, Brentwood, which it currently rents for Friday prayers.
Residents bombarded the Gazette website with comments vowing to fight the proposals, but secretary of the Foundation, Brentwood-born Mohammad Edoo urged:
“I think, or should I say hope, that the people of Brentwood are more intelligent than to make judgements based on the actions of a few radicals and sayings of people who claim to represent the whole Islamic faith. We welcome people who want to know more and our doors are not closed. Please don’t brand us before you know us.”
He admitted he was saddened by some of the negative reaction but added: “I know we have some very strong stereotypes to fight.”
But amid the negative response from the community, others have embraced the Foundation’s plight and backed their plans. Labour leader Mike Le-Surf, ward councillor for Brentwood South where Muslims currently meet, told the Gazette:
“I know the Muslim community has been in discussion with the council for some time but they’re not getting anywhere. I am happy to support and represent them within the council. I went down during Friday prayers and to be honest I wouldn’t have even known they were there until I opened the door. It’s not causing any problems for residents at all.”
A representative of the Hutton Community Centre also contacted the Gazette to offer their facility for use.