Positive reaction after renovation
East Kilbride’s first Islamic Centre welcomed the wider community at an open day.
The charity Dawat-e-Islami UK have transformed the former Calderwood Library building into an education centre and place of worship for the town’s Muslim community.
As well as educating local folk on Islam, Jumuah prayers will be held at the centre on Friday afternoons.
The dilapidated former library and community hall had been closed since 2015 due to council budget cuts.
The charity opened its doors to residents, politicians and representatives from other faiths in the area to show them the revamped Alison Lea building which cost £260,000 to renovate.
A representative for Police Scotland was also in attendance.
Community representative Ansar Mahmood told the News the open day was well received.
“It was a good day and quite a lot of local residents came along to see what we had done,” he said.
“The feedback was very positive and people were glad to see the building improved and put to use as it had become a bit of an eyesore.
“We are near enough done with all the work and just have the clearing up to do really.”
Mr Mahmood went on: “We also welcomed representatives from other churches [and] local councillor Fiona Dryburgh. We invited MP Dr Lisa Cameron and MSP Linda Fabiani who were unfortunately unable to attend due to prior engagements but have said they will come and see what we have done when they are able to do so.”
Councillor Dryburgh (East Kilbride South) said: “It was great to see the building transformed and learn about future plans for education and community involvement.
“It was great to have a demonstration on how to wear a turban and to learn about the attire.
“The Islamic Centre is open to all in the community and the Muslim community are keen to invite folks along and provide information sessions for congregations from any faith across the town.”
She added: “Ansar explained how we could learn from the materials available and could start with ‘Welcome to Islam’.
“It was fitting to see Revs John Brewster, Lindsey Sanderson, Neil Buchanan, assistant minister Agnes Tait and many folks from the local community.
“East Kilbride is a diverse community and the community welcome the addition of an Islamic Centre.”