Former pub to become an Islamic community centre

An Islamic education charity has been given permission to turn a former east London pub into a community centre.

The Quwwat-Ul-Islam Society plans to convert the ground floor and basement of The Hudson Bay on Upton Lane in Forest Gate.

The charity hopes to host social clubs for the elderly as well as run fitness classes, youth clubs, parent and toddler sessions, IT skills classes and vocational training.

Last year the charity set up an appeal to buy the former pub and raised more than £36,000.

The fundraising page said the space held "immense potential to serve as a centre for social and educational activities for our community" and would provide "a safe haven for individuals of all ages, where they can learn, grow, and find solace".

The planning application was approved by Newham Council’s local development committee.

The application said the facility was “much needed especially within the South Asian community”.

Part of the former beer garden would be used for an outbuilding to carry out religious cleansing rituals, under the plans.

The pub closed its doors to the public in July last year after Wetherspoons - its owner - announced it was selling the venue.

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