Controversial plans to redevelop a mosque were given the green light – much to the delight of Merton’s council leader.

The Darul Amaan mosque, in Merton High Street, Colliers Wood, was granted planning permission by Merton Council to demolish the current single-storey structure and build a new three-storey mosque with a basement, dome and minaret.

But nearby residents complained the bigger mosque would be too big, out of character for the area, and would put a greater strain on parking places and traffic in the area.

Planning officers defended their decision to recommend the planning application to approval, saying that domes were “common in Victorian buildings” and cited the Raynes Park Tavern and Wimbledon Piazza as examples of similar structures in Merton.

Councillor Henry Nelless, who represents the residents of Abbey ward, said: “This application is too large to be acceptable in this area.

“A dome would occur in commercial areas like Wimbledon town centre, but not residential areas. This proposal will dominate the neighbouring residential properties.”

Coun Nelless’s comments were at odds with those the Labour leader of the council, Stephen Alambritis, who allied himself firmly with the applicants of the mosque redevelopment.

Speaking in favour of the application, Coun Alambritis said: “I am Green Orthodox but I have immense respect for other religions.

“I believe that this mosque will contribute to community cohesion in this borough, and improve Holmes Road which used to be a no-go area.”

What do you think? Leave a comment below, call 020 8722 6335 or email: ooakes@london.newsquest.co.uk.

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