New Muslim centre set to be introduced for the community in Kendal

A new Muslim centre is set to open after plans were submitted to Westmorland and Furness Council.

According to reports, Mr H Burrows has submitted suggestions for altering the utilisation of the store and office premises situated in Kendal.

This particular site, found at 185 Highgate, is positioned within Kendal’s conservation area.

The proposals underscore the necessity of a specialised communal and religious center to meet the needs of the Muslim community residing in the South Lakeland region.

The plan mentioned: “It is common for Muslims who work in the area to travel to and from towns and cities in the North of England e.g. North Lancashire and West Yorkshire where Muslim communities are better catered for.

“The Community Centre would offer the community a hub and ‘safe space’ where prayers may be offered and religious practices observed. As such it will be an asset to the area adding to diversity and understanding.”

The application’s heritage design and access statement added: “Other than the removal of an internal stud wall, like-for-like replacement of the guarding to the external steps to the rear yard and internal redecoration there will be no physical alterations undertaken to the building.

“The building will be used by a maximum of 40 people over five gatherings for prayers each day, religious education and small social gatherings. It is anticipated that most services and gatherings will not exceed 25 or so people. Where numbers are anticipated to be greater a second service or gathering will be introduced.

“Depending on the time of year and on religious festivals at particular times of the year the hours of use will be from approximately 2.30am to midnight.”

Reports state that during the summer season, prayers will be held at Fajr (dawn), 2.34am, Duhur (noon), 1.17pm, Asr (mid-afternoon), 5.41pm, Maghrib (sunset), 9.52pm and Ishah (night time), 11.09pm.

In the winter, prayers will take place at Fajr (dawn), 2.34am, Duhur (noon), 12.19pm, Asr (mid-afternoon), 1.42pm, Maghrib (sunset), 4pm and Ishah (night time), 5.35pm.

According to the plan, the prayers will last for an hour and no external call to prayer will be done. The anticipated date for the decision is set for October 26th.