Derelict church to become mosque, named Masjid Al-Ummah

A derelict church in Watford, St Thomas' United Reformed Church, has been purchased by the Ar-Rahmah Trust for £3.5 million. The church closed in 2015 due to structural issues, and previous plans for demolition were not realized. The trust plans to renovate the building into a mosque named Masjid Al-Ummah, aiming to raise an additional £1.5 million for the project. They have already launched a crowdfunding campaign to repay short-term financing, with significant contributions received. The new mosque will offer various community services, including a women's gym, nursery, food bank, and educational facilities. The local Muslim population has grown significantly, creating a demand for more worship and community spaces.