Islamic school outrage

8:51am Wednesday 31st October 2001

STAFF at a Chislehurst school say they are “saddened” at an anonymous letter which has sparked outrage in the community.

Hundreds of households received the letters listing objections to a proposed extension at the Darul Uloom Islamic School, in Foxbury Avenue.

The letter, which refers to a planned hall as a “Mosque facility”, lists eight objections to the proposal, focusing on use of green belt land, traffic and design of the new building.

Proposals for the site include a prayer hall, gym, IT suite and science labs.

But the school has hit back saying it is upset it is not viewed as part of the “Chislehurst community”.

Perry Street resident Jackie Rubin, 34, said: “I am worried at the prospect of having a Mosque built here as traffic problems already make the roads dangerous and could be very noisy.

“I am concerned the letter was anonymous but I didn't know anything about the work until I received it, and I think I have a right to be informed and worried.”

Chief planner Stuart Macmillan explained: “This is not a Mosque in the usual sense. Basically it's an assembly hall where the whole school can congregate for prayer.

“Concerning the use of green belt land, there may be special circumstances, and the council can only make a recommendation.

“The ultimate decision lies with the Greater London Authority and the Secretary of State for the Environment. Highway engineers have raised no objection.”

Sturges Field resident Trisha Whitehead put together a petition after receiving the letter, which 30 residents have signed.

It states they feel like “sacrificial lambs” and the current noise levels from the school are disturbing and affect property prices.

Mrs Whitehead, 57, said: “I think this letter is a valid method of informing public debate and whoever wrote it was doing us a service. The school should not be allowed to expand on a green belt site.”

Darul Uloom principal Mufti Musa said: “I am sad certain people continue to resent our school being a part of the Chislehurst community. The development will be on already built-on land and will provide important facilities.”