MORE than a dozen people attended the City of Greater Bendigo Whipstick ward meeting this week in protest against a proposed mosque in Bendigo.
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Attendees travelled from afar to air their concern regarding the $3 million proposal earmarked for Rowena Street.
Plans have been lodged with the council, with more than 130 objections lodged so far.
Councillor Peter Cox said it was good to see such heated debate at the ward meeting.
"This is what democracy is all about," he said.
"What's great about these meetings is that everyone can have their say."
Cr Cox said he would hold off on discussion about the mosque proposal until the application came before council.
"I'm not surprised by (all the controversy surrounding the mosque)," he said.
"It's a local issue and residents that live nearby who think their amenity might be impacted have the right to air their views," he said.
Cr Cox said about 45 people attended the meeting, to discuss the council's residential strategy, drainage, footpaths and the need for a pedestrian crossing in Huntly.
"One of the frustrating aspects is the time it takes council to react to local issues but I encourage everyone to put their point of view across to give it a higher ranking and get it approved quicker."