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Kamloops  

Kamloops Islamic Association plans to move mosque from Knutsford to somewhere near TRU campus

Move planned for mosque

The Kamloops Islamic Association is looking to relocate the Ayesha Mosque from Knutsford to somewhere near the campus of Thompson Rivers University.

In an email to Castanet Kamloops, Faisal Siddiqui, the association’s president, said they have been exploring the option to move the mosque since 2003, but the present time feels right for a relocation.

“In recent years, we have seen over 300 per cent increase in our members, who are mostly medical professionals, TRU faculty members and business owners,” Siddiqui said.

“The existing location is not easily accessible or on a transit route. ... Also, we know that our expansion options are very limited at the current location.”

Members of the Kamloops Islamic Association, including Siddiqui, will be presenting their relocation plans to city council during their meeting on Tuesday. Depending on where the new facility will be located, Siddiqui said rezoning may be required, which is why they wanted to give council a preview of their plans.

Siddiqui said they are looking at relocating somewhere near TRU's campus.

“We have explored several locations within the city and have concluded that if the new facility is located along the McGill corridor, it would best serve the community and TRU students,” Siddiqui said.

“The association is prepared to relocate as soon as a feasible location is found.”

According to city council's agenda, the Kamloops Islamic Association has had discussions with the city’s real estate department and completed a relocation survey within their membership. The group also presented its plans to the Mayor Ken Christian in November.

The delegation will appear before council on Tuesday.



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