Ted O'Neill

The derelict Ritz cinema and former bingo hall in Wokingham has been acquired by the Wokingham Islamic Centre, which plans to convert it into a mosque and wider community hub. The proposed facility would include a prayer hall, education spaces, women’s and youth areas, mentoring, sports activities and religious classes. The centre has raised more than £300,000 but needs another £407,000 by 31 August to complete the purchase. Local Reform UK leader Colin Wright welcomed the plans, saying redevelopment would remove an eyesore and potentially benefit nearby businesses. Earlier proposals to demolish the building and construct 22 flats expired without being implemented.