The Ilford Islamic Centre
Mission
Vision
Ilford Islamic Centre
A Pillar of faith and community

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
- Ilford Station (Elizabeth Line and TfL Rail)
- Multiple bus routes (including 25, 86, 123, 147, 167, 364, and more)
- Nearby street parking and local car parks
Our Legacy
A community beyond prayer

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