“We are especially concerned that the approved plans do not include sufficient parking spaces, which could lead to major traffic and safety issues for residents, schools, and businesses.

“Every donation, no matter how small, will help us take the next step in standing up for proper planning in Dalton.

“This is about ensuring transparency, accountability, and that local infrastructure and planning rules are respected. Every donation, no matter how small, will help us take the next step in standing up for proper planning in Dalton.”

The site has 17 parking spaces, but up to 100 worshippers – including doctors from Furness General Hospital – are expected. Construction began in March 2025 but has faced delays after local firms reportedly refused work amid negative publicity, forcing materials to be sourced from outside the area and increasing costs.

The project has drawn national attention due to protests. The far-right Britain First party staged demonstrations with “No Mosque Here” banners, while UKIP member Nick Tenconi confronted construction workers on video, calling for council action. Police intervened in multiple clashes, and several arrests were reported.

Supporters argue the mosque is vital for the town’s Muslim population, which currently must travel long distances to worship. Councillor Matt Brereton said: “It is essential for Furness’s sizeable Islamic faith community.”

Labour MP Michelle Scrogham, speaking at a counter-protest, said: “There’s absolutely no place for racism in Cumbria, and these views do not represent the majority of residents.”

Anti-Racism Cumbria added: “Counter-protests in Dalton have often outnumbered anti-mosque demonstrations.”

Some local residents voiced broader social concerns. One resident said: “I’m really not a racist, but seeing mosques being built I think sends out the wrong message to illegal immigrants.” Other residents expressed worries about traffic and parking congestion in an area already struggling with limited spaces.

The mosque is planned to include prayer halls, a community space, and a roof garden. There will be no minaret or loudspeakers. Despite this, misinformation has fuelled tension. Some claimed a “mega-mosque” would rise within the Lake District National Park; in fact, the building is 10 metres tall, 30 metres long, and sits outside protected parkland.

Planning permission was granted following soil remediation of the previously grassland site, although some objectors criticised the change from the initially proposed two-storey building to three storeys.

Anti-Islam protesters have continued to draw outside activists to Dalton, waving flags and chanting slogans. Counter-demonstrations organised by local residents and multicultural groups have at times outnumbered opposition rallies, though tensions remain high.

Police maintain extra patrols in the town and continue to respond to threats and harassment reported online against construction workers and the local Muslim community.

The fundraising effort aims to cover £1,128 in legal fees to instruct a barrister who can review the council’s approval for potential inconsistencies and breaches of planning rules. The barrister will assess materials, building scale, and traffic implications, including the effect on nearby schools, shops, and businesses. Residents say time is critical, as the centre’s foundations are already laid and construction walls are rising.

A total of £3,985 had been raised towards a £5,000 target as of 5pm on Tuesday.

With construction ongoing, Dalton remains sharply divided over the mosque’s future. Supporters emphasise its role in providing a local place of worship and community facilities for Muslim residents, while opponents insist the legal challenge is necessary to ensure planning regulations are properly enforced.