Reporter recommends mosque at Maidenhill

The report on ERC’s Local Development Plan was released last week.

Included in the council’s plan was a proposal to build a much-needed mosque on land adjacent to Eastwood High — but it prompted protests that a non-denominational school should not give up land for a religious facility.

The report finds in favour of an alternative site, part of the Maidenhill/Malletsheugh masterplan, on the grounds of lack of expansion for the school and additional traffic.

Professor Amir Hussain, of the East Renfrewshire Muslim Forum, told The Extra: “We are pleased with this decision. Maidenhill was our second choice but this will be good for the Muslim community in the long term and in addressing our immediate needs.

“We are currently using three facilities across East Ren and have consulted widely about the best way forward. We are pleased the democratically approved local plan has now been signed off.”

The news was also welcomed by west of Scotland MSP Stewart Maxwell, who said: “I am glad that the reporter has agreed with the parents that the newly-landscaped grounds of the school are not a good place to build a mosque.

“I am aware that a mosque is sorely needed for the Muslim residents of East Ren, and pleased that the reporter has decided that the original proposed site should be pursued.”

A council spokeswoman said: “Recommendations will be considered by the council before the plan is submitted to Scottish ministers for adoption.”