Campaigners are celebrating after Wokingham Borough Council agreed in principle to support a new mosque in the Berkshire town, following a petition led by the Wokingham Islamic Centre. The petition, which gathered several hundred signatures before being withdrawn, highlighted the lack of a dedicated mosque despite Wokingham’s Muslim population growing to more than 10,000.

The council has now begun discussions with community representatives to explore options, including potential sites. Council leader Stephen Conway and Councilor Basit Alvi recently met with the Islamic Centre and attended Friday prayers, while the council has also introduced the group to a property agent to help identify suitable premises.

Councilor Rachel Bishop-Firth said the council is committed to supporting all residents and ensuring fairness and inclusion, noting that many local Muslims currently have to travel outside Wokingham to worship. Conway added that the process will be handled transparently to ensure equal opportunities for everyone.