1. What is the First Masjid Project?
The First Masjid Project is a community-driven initiative by a registered charity called South Lakes Islamic Centre, aimed at building the first mosque in this area. It is designed to serve as a centre for worship and educational opportunities for the Muslim community, tourists, and members of the neighbourhood.
2. Why is a new masjid being built?
As the local Muslim population grows, there is a need for a dedicated space for religious and community activities. The new masjid will provide a peaceful and welcoming environment for Muslims to practise their faith, pray, and engage in community-building activities. It will also serve as a hub for dialogue and cultural understanding. There are well over 100 families, and contrary to certain narratives, dozens of Muslims working in the local NHS facilities alone, never mind all the engineers and businesspeople residing and working in the area. Muslims have been contributing to the local economy for 40 years!
3. How will the masjid impact the local community?
The masjid will be an asset to the community, primarily for the Muslims, but welcoming to all. The building will serve as a space for educational programmes and charitable initiatives, benefiting the community. The masjid is committed to fostering positive relationships with all local residents, promoting mutual respect, and enhancing community cohesion.
4. Will the masjid cause any disruption to the neighbourhood?
The First Masjid Project has been carefully planned to minimise disruption. Construction will take place in a responsible and considerate manner. Once operational, the masjid will follow local planning laws and guidelines to ensure that its activities remain peaceful and non-disruptive to the surrounding area.
5. Is the masjid in the Lake District National Park?
No, it is for the Lake District. The Lake District is a beautiful conservation project to preserve Britain’s most beautiful asset. We are simply placing a place of worship in a local town close to the Lake District so Muslim residents and tourists may find a place of solace and prayer.
6. Will the masjid be open to people of all faiths?
Yes! Despite its primary purpose being to cater for the daily and weekly prayer needs of the Muslim community, the masjid is hoping to be a welcoming space for all people, so long as its sanctity is respected.
7. What types of programmes will be offered at the masjid?
The masjid will host a wide range of programmes, including:
8. Who will fund the construction of the masjid?
The construction of the masjid is being funded by the local, national, and international Muslim community through voluntary donations, both from individuals and businesses. No public funds will be used for the construction, and we are committed to transparency in the use of all donations. We have our accounts externally audited for this very reason.
9. What is being done to combat false information and misconceptions about the masjid?
False propaganda has circulated regarding the First Masjid Project. Any good occurring in the world will gain attention from those who wish to deter and sideline these efforts. We focus on all the support we have received privately and publicly, as opposed to being distracted by the misinformation. We also hope this evolving FAQ resource will provide the facts.