'We must welcome a Hindu Temple in Milton Keynes' says councillor who voted AGAINST plans to build one in his ward

Cllr James Lancaster last month voted firmly against a planning bid to build such a temple in his Tattenhoe ward.

Officers had recommended the application from the Shirdi Saibaba Temple Association be passed, but councillors overturned their advice on the grounds it would cause traffic and parking problems.

They also said building, to be built from recycled shopping containers, would be out of keeping with the local area.

Members of the local temple community were bitterly disappointed. They worship Indian spiritual master Sai Baba of Shirdi, who died in 1918. and preached the importance of love, forgiveness, charity, contentment and inner peace.

The majority of devotees are Indians and/or Hindus, but Shirdi Sai baba also has devotees from all faiths including Sikh, Muslim and Christians.

Now the community is seeking hope in Cllr Lancaster's U-turn, which comes in the form of a letter to MK Council. It urges the council to include “appropriate plans for a Hindu temple” in all future development plans for Milton Keynes.

The letter refers to the recent rejected planning application rejected by Cllr Lancaster. It states: "What this application showed was a clear need for a Hindu temple in Milton Keynes."

He adds: "Milton Keynes is renowned for being a diverse and multicultural city and for good reason. We are a proud home to places of worship that allow the practicing of many religions. From churches, to mosques, to gurdwaras, we provide opportunities for our residents to worship, build their communities and allow us all to achieve a more inclusive society.

"It is beyond doubt that a Hindu temple such as what was proposed would be a welcoming and vital addition to Milton Keynes. It would also provide a huge boost to our thriving Indian community.

"Thus, the premise of this letter is to propose that in future development plans for Milton Keynes, we seek the opportunity to include appropriate plans for a Hindu temple. One that would achieve broad community support and once-and-for-all, allow Milton Keynes’ Hindupracticing residents the right and opportunity to be able to practice their faith locally."

Cllr Lancaster's letter concludes: "I am determined to work closely with the Council to make this a reality, with the right space, parking and needs for this."