A group opposing plans to build a mosque at Gungahlin in Canberra’s north has won the right to mount a Supreme Court challenge.
The Concerned Citizens of Canberra took its case to the ACT Supreme Court after its objections failed during the planning consultation period last year.
It has raised concerns about the social impact of a mosque on the area, including extra traffic and noise.
The development plans for the site on Valley Avenue received approval from authorities in August 2012.
Acting Justice Margaret Sidis has agreed to allow the group an extension of time after they failed to meet the deadline for launching their case.
The legal challenge must now begin by the end of April.
Justice Sidis has ordered the group to pay a surety of $25,000 to the court to cover legal costs.
She has noted concerns raised by the ACT Government that the group has only six members and assets of just over $2,000.
Justice Sidis rejected calls for local pastor Irwin Ross to join the case saying his real motivation was to circumvent the security for costs.
She dismissed a request for his name to be suppressed.