A FURNESS Islamic prayer centre is due to be completed by 2025.

The South Lakes Islamic Centre charity is to bring a place of worship for Muslims to Dalton.

The group has said it would provide a space for practising Muslims in the area and save them from having to travel around 100 miles for worship.

Documents submitted to planners say construction of the three-story building at Crooklands Brow would be completed by 2025.

Council planners have approved final plans for the construction of the community centre and prayer hall after fears over transport arrangements and management of the invasive plant Japanese knotweed.

New documents outlining plans to tackle the issues were submitted to Westmorland and Furness Council.

SLIC previously appealed to the public in fundraising to start construction at the site,  saying: "Once built, this will be a landmark site attracting Muslims from all over the country visiting the Lakes.

"The site will provide congregational facilities for men, women and children, with a community space, wudhu area, Janaza ghusl and disabled access with facilities.

"We are currently raising funds for the shell build of the Masjid which will be starting soon.

"Your funds will go towards establishing the foundations of the First Masjid in the Lakes." 

Outlining its concept, the SLIC said on its website: "Our vision is to facilitate South Lakes to be the place of choice to raise a devout Muslim family.

"We pray that from this community there will emerge Muslims who will be worshipful and serve their local and wider community.

"Such service, no doubt, stems from a deep connection with Allah and the Prophet peace be upon him, and these connections are nurtured through our connection with the Masjid."

The group said the space would cater to the 40 to 50 practising Muslim doctors at Furness General Hospital and their families, as well as 'professionals, business communities and other trade workers who will need basic prayer, burial, teaching and community facilities'

The original plans proved controversial when first submitted with around 30 objections made on the proposals.

Some residents also wrote letters in support of the plan.

Comments online ‘demonising the Muslim community’ were condemned by local councillors.