Controversial plans to build a £20-million community centre with Islam-influenced architecture have been submitted to Harrow Council.
The Battlers Well Foundation, a Muslim charity, wants to knock down the North Harrow Assembly Halls, in Station Road, North Harrow, and replace it with a state-of-the-art multi-faith complex.
The unusual designs, which were handed to the council on July 7, include a sports hall, seminar rooms, a prayer room for more than 200 people, a children's play centre, library and cafe.
Architects have been inspired by Muslim culture and have designed an undulating roof with Islamic decor.
A gym would be split into male and female areas but would be available for use by people from all faiths and cultures.
The building would also contain a 24-bed nursing home and eight flats, which would be used to generate money for the redevelopment.
Wendy Soden, 63, of Canterbury Road, North Harrow, is on resident who is unhappy with the plans.
She said: "I have spoken to a lot of people around here and none of us wants it. I will have to look out of my house every day and look at a monstrosity. It is too big, completely out of character with the area and there won't be enough parking spaces."
There has also been concern that the centre would only cater for Muslims, but if the plans get the go-ahead a management board would be set up to make sure people from all faiths and culture used it.
A 'green traffic plan', which aims to encourage users of the centre to use public transport, walk or cycle to the new centre, has also been submitted to the council along with the planning application.
But residents still believe 42 car parking spaces is not enough for the number of people expected to use the prayer hall.
Stephen Byfield, spokesman for Battlers Well Foundation, said: "When we carried out the consultation the scheme was genuinely well received and people liked the design. We have made some changes, to add more car parking spaces, and there will be less housing so it shouldn't be so high. We are actively in the process of raising money to carry out the project."
Marilyn Ashton, responsible for planning, said: "It is very early days because the plans have only just been submitted. Professional judgement should be left to the planning officers at the moment."
The plans are expected to be discussed at a planning meeting in October. For more information call 0800 023 2148 or visit www.nhcconline.org.uk
