AN Islamic group has been told to clear out of an illegal mosque in a small bungalow after residents complained it is regularly crammed with as many as 200 people.

Southend Council has received 150 complaints from angry residents in Fairfax Drive, Westcliff, since September 2010.

The Jaafriya Islamic Welfare Centre did not apply for change of use when it took over the two-bedroom chalet bungalow and began holding regular meetings.

In December 2010 the owner of the site also built an extension without planning consent.

Residents claim cars are parked on the pavement, bin bags litter the front of the property and there is noise at all hours of the night from running engines, slammed doors and raised voices.

Southend Council has now issued an enforcement notice after discovering the residential property is being used for religious celebrations and child education classes.

Martin Terry, independent councillor for the Westborough ward, said: “Over a long period of time there has been a constant stream of complaints about what is essentially a bungalow being used as a mosque.

“There have been all sorts of denials about this, but that is what it is.

“Although Fairfax Drive is a fairly busy road, this is a residential property and there is far more activity going on than there should be.

“It doesn’t matter what religion you are, you have to play by the rules and stick to the law.”

Southend Council made numerous attempts to get in touch with leaders of the centre before finally securing a meeting in March 2011. Officers were assured the bungalow was used mainly as a home with occasional small community meetings taking place.

Nevertheless, they decided to take action after the Jaafriya Islamic Welfare Centre for Charity Relief submitted an application for a grant from the council which clearly stated the building was used for religious functions.

They have since submitted a retrospective planning application for the change of use and single-storey rear extension, which has been recommended for refusal.

A final decision is due by July 10.

No one from the centre was available for comment.

However, in a planning statement submitted to the council, they said: “Young people would be educated in religious study and, as many are of foreign extraction, in the methods and traditions of this country.

“At the same time, the tutor would live in the premises.”