Search goes on for Windsor Muslim Association’s new home

The last class of the term was celebrated by Windsor Muslim Association’s (WMA) weekend school on Saturday, May 28 but the hunt goes on for the group to find a new home.

Children from the group’s weekend homework club gave a presentation in front of proud parents at the end of the class to show off their hard work.

The class, which caters for children aged five to 13, meets every Saturday at the WMA’s temporary home at the Manor Youth Centre in Hanover Way.

Youngsters are taught how to improve their maths, English, science and Arabic skills during the lessons.

Mohammed Ariff, chairman of the WMA, said: “Some of the children can get less help from their parents at home so they come to the centre and we help them.

“We identify where they can improve and give them a boost. We’re very proud of their efforts.”

Mr Ariff told the Express the group is still searching for a permanent home in the town following its failed attempt to convert the empty Vestel offices in Dedworth Road into an Islamic community centre.

The Express reported in February that the WMA decided to withdraw its application for a new home following advice from Royal Borough councillors about ‘pressure from the wider community’.

Mr Ariff added: “We’re still looking for a permanent home. At the last site we know there wasn’t enough parking.

“Our community come from Ascot, Windsor and Old Windsor so we need to find somewhere that can be easily accessed.”

He added that the group was ‘disappointed’ the Royal Borough had decided to raise WMA’s hourly rental rate at the Manor Youth Centre from £11.50 to £18.

“It’s a big jump for us because we’re a small community,” he said.

The Royal Borough has been asked for a comment but is yet to reply.