Chris Carter THE TV programme Tower Block of Commons, which finished this week, was a real eye-opener for the MPs who took part. The premise was for the politicians to spend two weeks with families living on some of England s most rundown housing estates, with Goresbr
Chris Carter
THE TV programme Tower Block of Commons, which finished this week, was a real eye-opener for the MPs who took part.
The premise was for the politicians to spend two weeks with families living on some of England's most rundown housing estates, with Goresbrook Village in neighbouring Dagenham one of them.
One of the scenes saw an elderly resident in west London complain to Tory MP Nadine Dorries about her community centre being "taken over" by her Muslim neighbours.
Ms Dorries managed to bring the two communities together with a barbecue and the mosque leader vowed to pop round the woman's house for a cup of tea to build bridges.
The story on this page, of residents protesting over the mosque plan in Newbury Park reminded me of the TV show.
I am certain the neighbours of the planned Islamic centre in Oaks Lane have genuine concerns, with parking and disruption their main fears.
But I am also sure, knowing Redbridge's history, that the two sides will get together and thrash out a solution.
The borough is stronger for its melting pot make-up and it is essential any conflict is dealt with head on.
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