The go-ahead for a controversial 108ft Islamic centre in Oxford was sealed by the wafer-thin majority of one vote last night, writes Madeleine Pennell.

Lord Mayor Maureen Christian had to use her casting vote after city councillors were split equally on whether to ask the planning committee to reconsider the plans.

The committee had asked the full council to decide whether it should look at the scheme again after a deluge of protesters had complained about its decision to allow the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies to be built on land off Marston Road. Cllr Christian, who was chairman of the planning committee that approved the scheme in April, said she felt it was right to uphold the original decision.

However, opponents of the scheme said Oxford's skyline would be ruined for ever by the building which includes a 108ft tower and a 75ft dome.

They objected to any building on the land, which is owned by Magdalen College and is next to the popular beauty spot. David Taylor, director of corporate services, warned councillors that they would have to have strong reasons for changing their minds because the council could face an expensive planning appeal.

But Cllr Mike Woodin (Green), deputy chairman of the planning committee said: "I am sure that we have a case to sustain. There are clear and substantial reasons for refusal."

A search for a site by the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies has taken five years and Prince Charles backs the project.