A £2 million mosque which will accommodate 1,000 people has been given the go-ahead to be built in Bradford.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Ass-ociation has collected funds for the mosque, near the East Ward Labour Club in Otley Road, which will be one of the biggest in Bradford.
Full planning permission for the three-storey development has been given by Bradford Area Planning Panel.
Work is expected to start by the end of the year, with completion in about three years' time.
Today Barry Malik, president of the association, said: "I am delighted. It is something I have been dreaming about for a long time.
"It will be beautiful. We have looked at the designs of mosques in different parts of the world to incorporate their best features."
He said the three-storey building would have separate halls for men and women, a community centre, kitchen and training areas.
Mr Malik added that the association would welcome people of any religion at the building, which he described as a landmark.
Members of the panel were told that the association agreed to pay for the costs of a no-waiting-order in Rees Way, following concern about the possibility of congestion and parking around the site.
Council officers told the panel there were seven objections from people concerned about noise and disturbance, on-street parking and additional traffic. In response, the panel agreed that there should be restrictions on hours when the call to prayer could be made.
Councillor Allan Hillary (Bolton Lib Dem) said there must be no interference with businesses in the area through traffic and parking for the mosque.
Councillor Valerie Binnie (Con, Thornton), said: "If entrances were blocked, there would be chaos and frustration for companies."
Chairman Councillor Clive Richardson said they would make strong representations to the police to enforce the double yellow lines which would be installed.
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