Jain leader invites 'all communities' to new temple (From Times Series)

Jain leader invites 'all communities' to new temple in Colindale

3:50pm Friday 11th January 2013 in News By Natalie O'Neill

A religious organisation has pledged to open its arms to “all communities” after receiving planning permission to build a temple in Colindale.

Founder of the Jain Network Dr Natubhai Shah was “very happy” after plans to demolish their current headquarters in Colindale Avenue were given the go ahead by Barnet Borough Council on Wednesday night.

Founder of The Jain Centre in Colindale Avenue will be demolished and replaced with a three storey building which will include a temple as well as community centre with conference rooms, a dining area and flats for staff.

Speaking to the Times Series, Dr Shah said: “We’re very happy. I would really like all communities to come together at the centre.

“Everybody is welcome to join us – we will be offering educational facilities, health facilities and cultural facilities for the whole community.”

The Jainism faith preaches non-violence and community harmony and hopes its new temple will serve some of the 11,000 Jains currently living in Barnet, Brent Cross and Harrow.

Despite Dr Shah’s emphasis on bringing people together, residents living nearby to the Jain Centre are unhappy about the plans.

Neighbours in Cecil Road are concerned the new centre will increase traffic and parking problems in the area.

Mr Janaka Siriwardena, who has lived in the road for six years, said: “I’m amazed these plans have been approved. The road is already blocked with cars when the centre is in use. It’s ridiculous.”

Dr Shah told the Times Series he would put a notice in Cecil Road telling members of the Jain Centre not to park there.