Ilford Islamic Centre

The Ilford Islamic Centre

Mission

Our mission is to serve the spiritual, educational, and social needs of the Muslim community through inclusive and faith-driven services. We aim to provide a welcoming space for worship, learning, and support, rooted in the values of Islam. By nurturing connection and growth, we help individuals and families thrive together in faith and unity.

Vision

Our vision is to be a leading Islamic centre that inspires, empowers, and unites. We strive to promote understanding through education, dialogue, and meaningful community engagement. With a focus on sustainability and compassion, we aim to build a future where faith and service go hand in hand.

Ilford Islamic Centre

A Pillar of faith and community

Ilford Islamic Centre (IIC) is widely recognised as the largest and most prominent mosque in the London Borough of Redbridge. Since its establishment, the Centre has evolved into a cornerstone of the local Muslim community – serving as a beacon of faith, learning, and community development. Its reputation extends well beyond the borough, attracting visitors and engagement from across London and throughout the UK.

Our History Timeline

Ilford Islamic Centre has grown from humble beginnings in 1968 to become a cornerstone of spiritual, educational, and community life in East London. Each phase of our journey reflects the dedication, unity, and generosity of our community — building a legacy that continues to shape future generations.

1968:
Humble Beginnings

Mr. MSA Khan of 1 Kingswood Rd, Goodmayes, offers two front rooms for Jumah and Taraweeh prayers. The space also serves as a Madrassah.

1970:
Organization & Foundation

Constitution adopted to form the Muslim Welfare Association. Fundraising begins. Bank account opened at NatWest Bank, Seven Kings.

1971
Growing Community

Membership reaches 121, including 107 male and 14 female members — showing the community’s steady and growing involvement.

1972
Organization & Foundation

The first Annual General Meeting (AGM) is held at the Methodist Church Hall. Mr. A.A. Dakri is elected as the Centre’s first President.

1973
Vision

At the AGM held in Goodmayes, members resolve to acquire a dedicated building for religious, social, and cultural activities.

1974
Worship

Constitution adopted to form the Muslim Welfare Association. Fundraising begins. Bank account opened at NatWest Bank, Seven Kings.

1977
Transition

Planning permission is refused for St Alban’s Rd. During Ramadan, St Alban’s Church on Albert Rd is hired for prayers – this site later becomes the permanent home.

1978
Purchase

The Muslim Welfare Association purchases St Alban’s Church for £40,000, laying the foundation for a long-term religious centre.

1979
Expansion

An adjacent bungalow at 56 Albert Rd is bought for £15,000, expanding the Centre's physical footprint and future planning capacity.

1982
Review

Efforts begin to revise the constitution to better align with the growing needs of the community and future legal compliance.

1986
Admin

A Maintenance Committee is formed to manage day-to-day Centre affairs and oversee operational decisions more efficiently.

1989
Property

Further expansion with the purchase of 52 Albert Road for £92,500, ensuring room for future services and facilities.

1990
Support

The Charity Commission steps in to assist the Centre in designing a robust and legally compliant new constitution.

1991
Reform

The new constitution is adopted. Mr. Ghazanfer Ali becomes Chairman; Haji Ghulam Hussain is appointed Secretary.

1992
Drive

A major fundraising campaign begins with the goal of building a new mosque and a day care and community centre.

1993
Funding

With public generosity, the Centre purchases 50 Albert Road for £70,500 — a major milestone in the expansion project.

1994
Build

Demolition of 54–56 Albert Rd begins. On July 29, construction of the new purpose-built mosque officially starts.

1996
Buy

The Centre purchases 58 Albert Road for £80,000 to further expand services and future project possibilities.

1997
Mosque

Ilford’s first purpose-built mosque is completed — featuring a dome and minaret — becoming a landmark for local Muslims.

1998
Parking

After two years of negotiations, the Centre secures the Mildmay car park opposite the mosque for £115,000.

2001
Phases

Construction begins on Phase 2 (Madrassah) and Phase 3 (Day Care & Community Centre) to support education and social needs.

2003
Open

Phase 2 completes in July and Phase 3 in October, providing new spaces for structured learning and community services.

2009
Future

Land is purchased in Newbury Park for a future Islamic school (Phase 5), and work begins on Phase 4 – Masjid Extension.

2011
Extend

The Centre celebrates the completion of Phase 4, further expanding the mosque’s prayer and functional areas.

2013
School

The Sunday School officially opens, offering structured Islamic learning for the youth every weekend.

Our Team

At Ilford Islamic Centre, our leadership is committed to serving the community with sincerity, professionalism, and Islamic values. The elected committee oversees a range of vital services and initiatives, ensuring the Centre remains a hub of worship, education, and support.

Allama Jamshaid Saeedi

Imam

Imam Salik Malik

Imam

Ghulam Hussain

Chairman

Ghazanfer Ali

Vice Chairman

Zuber Patel

General Secretary

Mohammad Nasrullah

Treasurer

Mushhood Haider

Madrasah Admin

Mohammad Ashfaq

Funeral Services Admin

Mohammad Imtiaz

Maintenance Incharge

Hamza Aslam

Marriage Services Assistance

Sajjad Sharif

Monthly Religious Events

Lal Hussain

Community Centre Management

Dr Nadeem Shakir

Health & Medical Services Lead

Strategic location & accessibility

Situated in the heart of South Ilford, the Centre is just a short walk from Ilford Town Centre and is easily accessible via:
This accessibility, combined with the Centre’s reputation, contributes to high attendance levels, particularly during Friday (Jumah) prayers, Eid celebrations, and special religious occasions.

Our Legacy

A community beyond prayer

As it continues to grow, Ilford Islamic Centre remains committed to serving the evolving needs of its diverse congregation, while upholding the values of compassion, service, and faith. It stands not only as a spiritual sanctuary but as a driving force for positive change and community upliftment in Redbridge and beyond.

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