Paterson MP Calls For Calm After Buchanan Mosque Approval

BY IAN CROUCH

The newly elected member for Paterson is urging the community not to do anything extreme in the wake of the Buchanan Mosque approval.

Objectors have taken to social media, furious with Cessnock Council's decision.


She says a lot of people had genuine objections to the development not because it was a mosque, but because it impacts on the rural amenity of the area and people were also concerned about safety aspects on Buchanan Road.

However, Meryl Swanson, who happens to live nearby the proposed mosque, says threats to burn it down are out of place.


"There are keyboard warriors out there who get on Facebook and say the most ridiculous things, and I would say to those people, take a deep breath , really think about what you're saying -does it pass the sensible test, and let's be respectful". she said.

Meryl Swanson

Controversial Mosque Approved

BY IAN CROUCH

 Cessnock City Council has given the go-ahead to a mosque at Buchanan.

Councillors voted 6-4 in favour of the controversial project at last night's meeting which was attended by several police officers, who made sure tensions didn't get out of hand.

Those against the mosque spoke of how it would create traffic problems, while some feared it would lead to increased crime, however Mayor Bob Pynsent who voted for it says it met all the planning requirements.


The Association's Diana Rah says they are looking forward becoming a part of the local community and hopes it time they can put community fears surrounding the development to rest.

Diana Rah Photo courtesy theherald.com.au

Mosque Decison Due Tonight

BY IAN CROUCH

 Those for and against a mosque at Buchanan are set to come face to face at Cessnock Council tonight as a decision is made on whether the controversial plan is given the go ahead.

16 speakers will address the meeting in support of the mosque, while 12 will speak against it.

Council staff have recommended the project be approved as it meets planning guidelines.

Buchanan Mosque -artist's impression

Controversial Mosque Recommended For Approval

BY IAN CROUCH

 A controversial mosque earmarked for Buchanan has been recommended for approval by staff at Cessnock Council.

It will now be up to councillors to decide if the project is given the go-ahead at this Wednesday's meeting.

Council planners say the mosque, which has been re-designed so it's further off the road, meets all the planning requirements.


The revised plan also includes a separate building for a funeral home and additional landscaping.

Of the 600 submissions to council, 447 opposed the development while 163 supported it.

Buchanan Mosque Site. Photo courtesy Maitland Mercury