Salt, Jordan — In a move welcomed by residents and religious leaders, the Greater Salt Municipality has removed a waste collection room that stood adjacent to the historic Assemblies of God Church on Al-Weam Street—one of the city’s most iconic heritage roads.

The site, just meters away from the Omar Ibn Al-Khattab Mosque, sits in the heart of Al-Midan, a neighborhood known for its deep-rooted spirit of religious coexistence. Officials say the removal is part of a broader effort to enhance Salt’s image as a city of peace and interfaith harmony, especially since its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Speaking to Milhilard.org, Salt Mayor Mohammad Al-Hayari said the waste room had been in place for over five years, originally part of a regional waste management plan. However, the location—between a mosque and a church—was no longer appropriate given the area’s cultural and religious significance.

“This is not just any street. It’s a living symbol of the city’s religious and social unity,” Al-Hayari said. “Having a garbage room in such a sensitive area did not reflect the values or heritage of Salt.”

After a field visit, Al-Hayari ordered the immediate removal of the facility and directed efforts to rehabilitate and beautify the space to reflect its spiritual and touristic importance. He emphasized that the area sees constant foot traffic from residents and tourists alike and needed to be clean, safe, and visually welcoming.

Reverend David Ayoub Rihani, head of the Assemblies of God Church in Jordan, praised the swift municipal action. “On behalf of the church, I thank Mayor Al-Hayari for his prompt and respectful response,” he said. “The area now better reflects Salt’s unique identity—a place where minarets and church domes share the same skyline.”

Rev. Rihani noted that residents had long complained about the site’s foul smells and visual blight, particularly as it marked a main entrance to the city. He added that while the waste room was originally established in 2015, it was clear in hindsight that its placement ignored the area’s religious and cultural sensitivity.

Local shop owner Bishara Al-Dabbaneh, whose business is located on Al-Midan Street, also expressed relief. “It wasn’t just an eyesore—it was hurting the neighborhood,” he said. “Now the area feels more like the historic, welcoming Salt that people come to see.”

The municipality says the site will be included in a planned religious and heritage trail to enhance Salt’s appeal to visitors, turning what was once a problem into a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit of coexistence.