Sonny Bill Williams wins mosque battle

Plans to construct a mosque in south Sydney have been given the inexperienced mild after proposals have been backed by two of the largest sporting stars in Australia.

Former All Black star Sonny Bill Williams and boxer Anthony Mundine have thrown their help behind the Hurstville Masjid, which builders say will present the realm a spot for worship and community-based actions.

“It’s been a roller coaster ride to get this Masjid up and running, maybe four or five years,” Mr Williams stated in a promotional video for the mosque.

“As a proud Muslim in this area, this is something that I’ve been looking forward to for a very long time.”

An utility to spend nearly $1 million to demolish the previous nursing residence on Botany St in Carlton was first filed in 2019.

Backers of the event efficiently challenged Georges River Council after the proposal was refused in December 2021.

Twelve objections have been supplied to the court docket, with close by residents elevating considerations a couple of lack of privateness, elevated noise and saying the plans have been an “over-development” of the positioning.

But on September 6, NSW Land and Environment Court commissioner Susan O’Neill discovered the problems raised by George River Council had been addressed by the candidates.

“I accept the experts’ analysis and agreement that the amended application has successfully addressed the contentions raised by the Council,” she stated.

Mr Williams grew up in New Zealand as a Christian, however in his 20s he discovered the Islam religion.

He advised 9NEWS having a Mosque in his area people was “long overdue”.

“Perseverance means patience and that‘s what we’ve had,” he stated.

“It‘s been long overdue but thank god we’re here now.

“There’s a big community out there you know, especially in the sporting world.”

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