Plans to build a striking new mosque in Keighley have won strong community backing.

Several organisations this week pledged their support for the scheme, put forward by Keighley Muslim Association.

Last week we exclusively revealed the proposals to dramatically redesign and extend the existing Jamia mosque in Emily Street. The project - expected to cost over £500,000 - will provide desperately-needed extra space. There will also be facilities for women, who are unable to use the current premises, and for the disabled. Other features will include a mortuary area and provision for funeral services.

Business 2000 - an organisation established two years ago in response to growing unemployment within Keighley's Asian community - has vowed to help raise the necessary funds. Director Ashraf Miah says: "I welcome the mosque extension plan. We will support this project morally and financially and will co-operate with the Muslim Association in any way possible."

Backing has also come from the Ittehaad Community Association which agrees an extension is needed urgently. Chairman Ali Akbar told us: "At peak times there are people praying on the stair landing and in hallways. Funerals are conducted in the car park which is very unpleasant in rough weather.

"We would like to congratulate the new Muslim Association committee on its motivation and hard work for the local community. We fully support the extension programme."

Its comments are echoed by the Lajpal International Welfare Trust, whose chairman Mohammed Ajaib says: "I hope the association carries on with its hard work to cater for all sections of the community including women and the disabled."

The present mosque has served the local community for more than 20 years. It can accommodate around 800 people but at busy times the building is overflowing.

Plans for the proposed new mosque - designed by Gelder and Kitchen, of Devonshire Street, Keighley - have been submitted to Bradford council.

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