North West Islamic Association buys ex-Reformed Presbyterian Church in Londonderry for community and worship centre
The North West Islamic Association has bought a former Reformed Presbyterian Church in Londonderry for a community and worship centre which it says will continue the building’s tradition of “reflection, care, and service” for the local community.
Muslims in the city currently meet in a unit in Hyde Business Park in the Pennyburn area. It is reported to have some 1000 members, coming from countries such as Pakistan, Syria, Egypt, Iran and the Palestinian territories.
The former church on Clarendon Street will be known as the Peace Islamic Centre and is “intended to serve as a shared space for community use and worship” the The North West Islamic Association (NWIA) said.
No asking price was published for the former church when it was on the market last summer.
Sold by Montgomery & McCleery estate agents, however, as a Grade B listed building it was advertised as a “substantial city centre property, income producing” located in a conservation area in the city centre.
The purchase and plans for internal refurbishment was made possible by community fundraising, NWIA, said.
The property dates back to 1837 and was closed as a church in 1990, with a planning application lodged that year for change of useage.
The former church has two floors including an open-plan reception/landing with large boardroom, director’s office, kitchen and bathroom facilities. It also included the Adjoining building, 17 Queen Street.
In a press statement on social media, North West Islamic Association said it was pleased to confirm that it has purchased the former church.
The group noted that for the last four decades, the building has been home to a organizations including Unison, the Migrant Centre NI, and Derry Well Women, among others.
"These groups have played an important role in the civic and community life of the city,” the group said.
"NWIA recognizes the importance of this building to many people in Derry/Londonderry and is mindful of the responsibility that comes with caring for a building of such significance. We are committed to ensuring it enters its next chapter with care, maintaining it with full respect for its history and its place within the community.
"The building will be known as the Peace Islamic Centre and is intended to serve as a shared space for community use and worship. It will provide a dedicated prayer space for the local Muslim community, alongside facilities for community support, engagement, and outreach activities, including local charity initiatives and support for those in need. This continues the building’s long tradition of reflection, care, and service."
NIWA said any future use of the building will comply with all relevant planning and regulatory requirements.
There are currently no plans to alter the building’s original external appearance.
"NWIA will continue engaging with local residents and the wider community and ensuring the building operates in a way that is considerate, proportionate, and respectful to its surroundings."
NWIA said it is committed to continuing to play “a positive and welcoming role” within the city.
"We aim to contribute in a constructive and respectful way to community life by building relationships, supporting those in need, and encouraging understanding across communities. In doing so, we hope to reflect the spirit of openness, goodwill, and peace at the heart of the Peace Islamic Centre.”
Spokesman Dr Sameh Hassan added: “This building has a long history of serving the people of this city, and we are committed to ensuring it continues to be a place that benefits the wider community.”