The Muslim community in Andover is facing a space crunch as its current meeting place can no longer accommodate its rapidly expanding membership.

The Andover Muslim Community Association, currently meeting at 48 East Street, has experienced a significant rise in members over the past few years, making it increasingly challenging to fit approximately 1,000 people into their current location.

Rahela Khanom, who founded the association in 2005, expressed the community's struggle to accommodate everyone for prayer during the month of Ramadan and their earnest desire to secure a more spacious venue.

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"There are a lot more Muslims in Andover, with people coming from Turkey, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Palestine, and more," said Rahela, who also owns the Shahi Raj restaurant at 4A Winchester Street.

"We started renting 48 East Street from the council around 10 years back, but we need a bigger place to meet and pray."

The former United Reformed Church building, located adjacent to 48 East Street, has remained vacant for nearly a year due to declining congregation numbers, leading to its permanent closure.

Having been a landmark on East Street since its completion in 1702, the church is the oldest religious building in Andover.

While some parts of the building are listed, there is some uncertainty and debate among community members regarding which parts specifically hold that designation.

Members of the Muslim community, including Rahela, used to gather once a week at the church when retired minister Rev Jill Bentall ran a luncheon club there.

Currently, discussions are taking place between the Muslim community and the United Reformed Church to explore the possibility of utilising the former church's space.

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"We believe it would be best if we could use the former church's space as we will be praying to the same God," Rahela said.

"If the church is planning to rent out or sell the building, we would be eager to seize the opportunity. It would be beneficial for the community and the building itself, as it would continue to serve as a place of worship."

United Reformed Church has been contacted for a comment on whether they are planning to sell the building.