Appeal over £1m Islamic Centre plans dismissed

An appeal against the rejection of plans to build a £1m Islamic Centre in Maidenhead has been dismissed by the Royal Borough's planning department.

The centre, which was proposed to be built behind Maidenhead Mosque in Holmanleaze, had been recommended for approval by officers on the grounds of it being an 'improved community facility'.

But the plans were rejected by Maidenhead development control panel on August 3 on the basis of inadequate parking provisions, and an appeal to the planning department has been unsuccessful.

Councillors had expressed their support for the facility, but turned it down over fears it would leave Holmanleaze swamped by cars.

A report on the planning inspector's decision stated the only problem with the plans was the parking issue.

The decision was made on January 4.

The English Defence League (EDL) held a protest in Maidenhead last year against plans to build the centre.