A decision on plans to build a controversial new community centre has been deferred.

The Battlers Well Foundation wanted to demolish the North Harrow Assembly Hall, in Station Road, and two pairs of semi-detached houses to create a community centre. The centre was set to include a sports hall, gym, prayer hall, library and children's play centre.

Residents have objected to the size of the building, as well as whether the services inside would appeal to non-Muslims.

However more than 100 people turned out to support the development, which had been earmarked for refusal. Councillors agreed to defer the decision in order to discuss the issues surrounding the application with the foundation.

Councillor Marilyn Ashton, portfolio holder for planning, development and enterprise, said: "As the committee have decided to defer this decision, we are of course happy to sit down with the applicants and see if there is a way forward.

"Let me make it explicitly clear that Harrow Council treats people of all backgrounds, beliefs and race the same and judges planning applications of material considerations of planning policy and nothing else."

The development was originally recommended for refusal for several reasons including disturbance from parking, overdevelopment, potential breach of neighbours privacy and flood risk.