Sydney mosque given green light for construction

The construction of a controversial mosque in Sydney’s west will go ahead after a three-year battle ended in court. 

The construction of a controversial mosque in Sydney’s west will go ahead after a three-year battle ended in court. 

The Islamic Association of Prospect will be allowed to build the $769,000 place of worship after an appeal was upheld in the Land and Environment Court last month.

The ruling comes almost three years after the application for the 113-person mosque at 420 Blacktown Road was lodged.

Blacktown City Council initially rejected the plans for the mosque, with locals stressing concerns about an increase in traffic and fears for pedestrian safety. 

But after two days in court, Commissioner Danielle Dickson gave the Islamic Association of Prospect the green light to begin construction.

The plan for the mosque includes a prayer hall, library, study, two entry areas, office kitchen and onsite parking for 34 vehicles.

The religious institution would operate every day of the week between 5.30am and 9pm.

Blacktown City Council argued the application should be refused as it is “not in the public interest due to the inadequacies of the proposal, the unsuitable location and the issues raised in the public submissions”.

The council received 22 written submissions and three petitions objecting to the proposed development, which was then agreed upon.