A MUSLIM organisation has spoken for the first time since holding Eid prayers in a building without planning permission.

The Cann Hall Deen and Education Trust, the new owner of the Colgrove Arms Pub, in Cann Hall Road, Leytonstone, used the building for Eid prayers on Friday.

The council stepped in because the trust does not yet have planning permission to use it as a place of worship.

The council said that it had been assured by the owners that it will not be used again for prayers and that major building works will not take place unless planning permission is obtained.

Syed Shafi, from the trust, said there had been no discussion with the council on the Eid prayer meeting.

He added: "A stop notice on the premises has been withdrawn by London Borough of Waltham Forest once our solicitor discussed the matter with the council legal representative last week. Building maintenance work will start in due course which does not require planning."

Referring to asbestos discovered at the premises last month he said a small amount was found in the basement. Building work was suspended while it was investigated.

Mr Shafi added: "The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and London Borough of Waltham Forest's own Environmental Health Officer are satisfied with our current action and we will discuss future plans with them. A planning application has been submitted for change of use of the property to mosque and cultural centre which is required as there are no facilities available for the local Muslim population.

"We live in a multi-faith society and such a centre will endeavour to cater for local needs."

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