Green Lane Masjid celebrations in Edgbaston & Small Heath cancelled - what’s happening instead

Green Lane Masjid has cancelled two of its open air Eid prayer events in Birmingham. The mosque previously confirmed that Eid will be celebrated on April 21 based on the moon sighting.

The mosque in Small Heath planned to host a massive Eid celebration for the second year with morning prayers being said open air. However, the weather did not support an outdoor prayer event today. So, Eid at Small Heath and Edgbaston was cancelled since rain was forecasted between 7am-12pm.

The mosque said: “We have made the difficult decision to cancel Eid at Small Heath & Edgbaston. We will hold 4 jammats at GLM at 6.30am, 7.30am, 8.30am and 9.30am.” Instead of the two open-air events, prayers will now be said at the Green Lane mosque at 6.30am, 7.30am, 8.30am and 9.30am.

At the mosque, there will be a one way system in place with separate entrances for men and women. Women will be able to enter through Clock Tower Door E and men will be able to enter through Little Green Lane Door H.

For those planning to visit for prayers, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Free parking is available in Morrisons near Green Lane. The mosque adviced people: “Please park considerably and do not block drivewats or park illegally.”
• Arrive with Wudhu.
• There is a one way system so shoes need to be kept with yourselves.
• Keep children with you at all times.

Traffic congestion during Eid

Transport for West Midlands said there will be “heavy congestion” on Coventry Road and surrounding roads even though the Eid event was cancelled. Allow extra time while traveling in the area.

How the police are working to keep everyone safe on Eid

West Midlands Police said they are continuing to work with the Muslim communities in Birmingham. On April 15, police faced resistance when they tried to stop illegal street trading during a Ramadan market.

They added: “We’re grateful to Imams and others in the community who have joined our officers on patrol on the Coventry Road and Ladypool Road in Birmingham over the past week.

“They joined with us after officers working with Birmingham City Council to tackle illegal street trading were attacked on Saturday night (15 April). We’ve continued our patrols every night since then, alongside leaders from Green Lane Masjid.”

Patrolling officers on Coventry Road had fireworks thrown at them around 11.30pm and at around 2.30am eggs were thrown at officers. The community helped point out the offenders and the police arrested three suspects. They remain in custody for questioning.

West Midlands Police said: “We’re grateful to the public for their support and we will be out again this evening to keep the community safe, taking action where necessary. We have been speaking to traders and positively engaging with the public. Community engagement officers have also been liaising with mosques during the day.”

Chief Inspector Nick Hill, Birmingham Local Policing Area, said: “We’re grateful for the support from the community and faith leaders. We know the businesses that are legal are frustrated and local people are worried, including from a safety perspective as lots of traffic can make it difficult for ambulances or fire engines to access particular areas.

“We’ll be reviewing feedback and assessing the best way to move forward for next year. In the meantime, we want to reassure local people that we’re here to support you and ensure that Ramadan celebrations pass peacefully and safely.

“Criminal behaviour won’t be tolerated and people will be arrested. I’d urge the parents and friends of those being disruptive to speak to them about the potential impact of their behaviour.”