A mosque’s bid for legal recognition has been met with dozens of objections despite it being in operation for several decades.

Wembley Masjid and Islamic Centre, in Stanley Avenue, has applied for a certificate of lawfulness from Brent Council’s planning department following a recent sale of the building.

A former residential property, it received temporary consent to operate as a mosque and educational centre from December 1988 to December 1990, though according to the applicant, Mohammad Khawaja, it has served the community since 1974.

Mr Khawaja explained there was confusion over the previous permission granted by the council, with management under the impression it was “for life” and therefore did not need renewing.

He explained the transfer of the property, which took place last year, highlighted that a new application should be put forward.

In the application, Mr Khawaja noted this site is “one of the earlier mosques in Brent”.

“It [meets] the needs and demands of the community and residents,” he added.

“The locals use and rely on this mosque – it adds to part of the local culture and social cohesion.”

Despite its longstanding operation, many living close to believe the mosque should not be given the certificate due to its impact on the surrounding area.

Several objectors, commenting on the application in Brent Council’s planning portal, suggested it contributes to increased traffic and noise issues as worshippers travel to and from the site.

Others argued the nearby Wembley Central Mosque, in Ealing Road, which is around a ten-minute walk away from Stanley Avenue, would be a more suitable alternative.