Plans to build a new mosque in Reading are a step closer to reality after the final terms were agreed between Muslim leaders and the Borough Council.

The new £4 million mosque would be built on land provided by Reading Borough Council on the corner of Wokingham Road and Green Road, close to the Thames Valley University campus. Facilities would include a prayer house, washing facilities, smaller prayer houses, a library, a conference room, classrooms for male and female students, a meeting centre for older people and parking for 115 vehicles.

Lengthy negotiations between the Muslim community and the Council will culminate on March 17 in a report to Cabinet outlining terms and specific wording of the agreement. Solicitors acting on behalf of both parties have now been instructed to conclude arrangements as quickly as possible.

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When complete the building - classical in design with a silver dome in the centre - would provide a social as well as religious focus for the Muslim community across Reading. It would replace the Alexandra Road mosque which has inadequate parking facilities.

David Sutton, Reading Borough Council Leader, said: "I am delighted that we have finally brought this long story to a successful conclusion. I wish the Muslim community every success in raising the necessary funds to build the new mosque; I know that they are confident that donors will soon come forward.

"This partnership between the Council and the Muslims of Reading sends a strong message about community integration and social harmony in our town, and I am very proud about that. I look forward to the grand opening of another new Reading landmark."

(CD/JM)