Canada: Al Rashid Mosque Seeks Rezoning for Community Expansion in Edmonton
The proposed rezoning aims to accommodate the growing needs of the local Muslim community by enabling the construction of a grand mosque, a private high school, a recreation center, and a business complex.
The land, located near the Rampart Industrial area, is strategically positioned between Campbell Road, 142nd Street, and 162nd Avenue, CBC News reported on Thursday.
Noor Al-Henedy, chair of the Al Rashid Mosque board, emphasized the site’s accessibility and size, stating that they have a large population in the north side, so we wanted land that’s easily accessible, especially during events like Eid, where thousands gather.
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The mosque, originally registered as the Arabian Muslim Association in 1938, signed a preliminary sales agreement for the land in September 2021. The rezoning application, submitted by Eins Development Consulting Ltd., seeks to amend the Northwest District Plan to facilitate the project.
The current Al Rashid Mosque, built in 1982, struggles to accommodate the community’s expanding population. Al-Henedy noted that during Eid celebrations, the mosque hosts two separate prayers to manage the influx of 15,000 to 18,000 attendees. Additionally, the Edmonton Islamic Academy, located nearby, plans to open a new elementary campus to address a waiting list of over 1,500 students.
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The rezoning proposal has sparked debate among city councillors. While some, like Ward Anirniq’s Erin Rutherford, see potential to revitalize the industrial tax base, others, including Ward O-day’min’s Anne Stevenson, expressed concerns about balancing residential and industrial development.
Ward Nakota Isga’s Andrew Knack and Ward Dene’s Aaron Paquette highlighted the city’s ample industrial land supply, with Knack noting, the city has 100 years of industrial land supply. Paquette urged swift action, emphasizing the urgent need for schools and community spaces.
Source: Agencies
