PLANS for a controversial community centre to be built by a Muslim charity were not refused despite recommendations.

A Harrow Council committee deferred making a decision on the project, run by the Battlers Wells Foundation, after planning officers recommended it be rejected outright.

Hordes of the organisation's supporters crowded round the front doors of Harrow Civic Centre and filled the public gallery at a meeting where councillors had been advised to reject the proposals.

The charity wants to build the centre on the site of the North Harrow Assembly Halls but has faced fierce criticism from residents.

Council officers said they saw eight flaws in an application for planning permission submitted by the organisation but the decision could pave the way for talks between the two parties to solve the dispute.

More to follow.