Islamic group look for Falkirk Council's approval for new religious community centre

Falkirk Islamic Centre lodged an application with Falkirk Council on Monday, November 9 looking for permission to change the use of the premises at The Forum, Callendar Boulevard, Callendar Business Park, Falkirk.

The group is looking to turn the offices into a “religious and community centre”.

In the online supporting information documents, the applicant says the proposed redevelopment of The Forum represents an important and positive opportunity for Falkirk.

The document states: “Falkirk Islamic Centre is intended to be a lasting investment in Falkirk's people, built environment and community infrastructure. It represents an opportunity to bring new purpose and civic identity to an existing building while creating a facility of genuine long-term social value.

“It will deliver a comprehensive Islamic Centre incorporating essential religious, educational, childcare, recreational and community facilities, supported by a substantial investment in the adaptation of existing accommodation.

"Its key architectural additions, including the portico, dome and contemporary minaret elements, have been carefully developed in response to the existing building's form, materiality and architectural character.

"The design seeks to provide a distinctive and recognisable identity while respecting the existing development and the historic context of the Callendar House estate. The controlled external call to prayer is proposed as a managed activity, with appropriate acoustic safeguards intended to protect neighbouring amenity.

“Provision of dedicated Ghusl and Janazah facilities address an identified deficiency in local provision and will enable bereaved families to access essential religious funeral services closer to home.

"The wider facilities will support learning, family life, wellbeing, community participation and social connection."