London mosques given protected heritage status

LONDON: For the first time in the UK, two London mosques have been given protected heritage status, in recognition of their architectural, cultural and historic importance.
In addition to Regent's Park central mosque in London, a purpose-built mosque, in Woking, Surrey, has also been given greater protection with its listing upgraded to Grade I, and the first functioning mosque in the country, in Liverpool, now has Grade II status.
Heritage Minister Michael Ellis said listing the mosques preserved important places of worship and celebrated the rich heritage of Muslim communities in England.