An ‘iconic’ Southfields mosque has been given special listed status by the Government, it has been announced.

The Fazl Mosque, in Gressenhall Road, is now a Grade II building following the move by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport.

Opened in 1926, it is the headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community and was London’s first purpose-built mosque at a cost of £6,223 at the time.

Councillor Ravi Govindia, Wandsworth Council’s leader, said: “We very much welcome this decision. The Fazl Mosque is a historic and important local landmark.

“It is a very unique and striking building, which represents the diversity of the borough, and deserves special protection and recognition.”

The Fazl Mosque was first constructed between 1925 and 1926 after funds were raised by the Ahmadiyya community in India and further supported by voluntary labour.

Councillor Simon Hog, Wandsworth Labour’s leader, said: "It's great to have another listed building in Wandsworth. We're blessed with an amazing diversity of architecture.

“The Fazl Mosque is a community landmark so many people recognise. It's welcome news that it's unique history has been appreciated in this way."