New mosque plans progressing

I'm pleased to report that the Muslim Academic Trust is progressing with plans for a new mosque on the former John Lewis site.

They are currently half-way through the architectural competition, having shortlisted four architectural practices out of an original eleven. The architects on the shortlist are now preparing detailed proposals, including drawings, for a deadline of 28 April. A jury, including a lecturer from the faculty of architecture, and a non-voting representative of East Mill Road Action Group, will hopefully meet shortly afterwards to pick a winner.

The old building on the site was extensively damaged by fire last November, and demolition has now been completed without significant problems or contamination issues - after concerns raised by local residents, the small garden in front of the property was conserved during the demolition.