The Peterborough Hindu temple operated by Bharat Hindu Samaj is challenging the city council’s proposed property sale in the UK High Court. Trustees argue that the bidding process was unlawful and could leave the area’s Hindu community without a suitable place of worship.
A Hindu temple in Peterborough, England, has asked the UK High Court to overturn the city council’s proposed sale of its long-standing property to an Islamic organization, arguing that the bidding and decision-making process was unfair and unlawful.
Bharat Hindu Samaj, which has operated at the New England Complex since 1986, says the property is the only Hindu temple within approximately 35 miles and serves an estimated 14,000 Hindus across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Lincolnshire.
Bharat Hindu Samaj disputes property bidding process
The temple was founded by families who had been expelled from Uganda during Idi Amin’s rule in 1972. In addition to religious services, it operates as a cultural and social center for Hindu families in the surrounding region.
The dispute arose after Peterborough City Council decided to sell the property as part of efforts to reduce debt estimated at approximately £500 million.
Temple trustees said they believed they had reached an agreement to purchase the site for £1.3 million. They said they were informed in March 2025 that they could acquire the property but later learned that it would be offered through a competitive bidding process.
Khadijah Mosque selected as preferred buyer
The council subsequently selected Khadijah Mosque, which is affiliated with the United Kingdom Islamic Mission, as its preferred buyer.
UKIM has said the mosque has outgrown its current location and intends to create a community “unity centre” containing prayer facilities, classrooms and sports spaces.
Following opposition from temple members, Bharat Hindu Samaj obtained an injunction temporarily preventing the sale. The temple also raised approximately £86,000 through a public fundraising campaign to support its legal challenge.
High Court examines fairness and Equality Act duties
At a High Court hearing on Friday, July 11, 2025, lawyers for Peterborough City Council argued that the sale process had been fair and transparent.
Attorneys representing Bharat Hindu Samaj alleged that the council’s decision contained significant procedural flaws. They also argued that the temple had not been offered a suitable alternative property.
The court is considering whether the council followed a lawful decision-making process and fulfilled its obligations under the UK Equality Act before selecting the preferred buyer.
Temple says no practical alternative has been offered
Peterborough City Council has acknowledged the Hindu community’s concerns and said it does not intend to leave the temple without a future home. Temple trustees maintain that no workable alternative location has been provided.
The High Court’s decision will determine whether the sale can proceed under the existing process or whether the council must reconsider its decision. The outcome will also shape whether Bharat Hindu Samaj can continue operating from the property it has occupied for nearly four decades.
