The vast majority of residents living in the same ward as the former Sanofi site oppose the idea of building a mosque on it, according to a Ukip survey.
More than 130 people crammed into the Eastbrook Pub, in Dagenham Road, on Thursday, for a public meeting hosted by Barking and Dagenham Ukip, to discuss the proposals to construct a prayer facility on the May and Baker Eastbrook Community Club, as revealed in the Post last month.
The meeting followed three weeks of consulting people on their doorstep, with 93 per cent of the 1,488 Eastbrook residents who responded (1,385) saying they would be against any plans.
Just 18 people, 1pc, were in favour while 6pc of respondents, 85, were neutral to the notion.
“The people have spoken,” said Peter Harris, a trustee of the May and Baker Eastbrook Community Club and vice-chairman of Ukip Barking and Havering. “The residents do not want a mosque built on the May and Baker Community Club land, pure and simple.
“I believe that should be the end of the matter and the politicians should listen to the views of the members of the public – they are there to serve the local residents.”
“If the people don’t want it, it shouldn’t be built.”
Pat Harding has lived in nearby Park Drive for more than 50 years and insists the topic unites residents, regardless of background.
“It’s not a political or a racial issue,” she said. “It’s about the local community sharing their views and getting their opinions heard.”
The May and Baker Club were contacted by the Post, but refused to comment.
Would you like to see a mosque built at the May and Baker Eastbrook Community Club? Send your views to mark.shales@archant.co.uk or call 020 8477 3824.
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