Council of State hears appeals against Athens mosque

The Council of State on Wednesday heard appeals against the construction of a mosque in Votanikos, near central Athens. The appeals have been lodged by a group of 153 residents and a local association.

The residents argue that the police measures around the site mean that they cannot walk through the area and that access to a local church is cut off. They say this is a breach of their right to worship.

Greece's highest administrative court is due to issue its decision in due course.

Earlier this year, Parliament approved plans to build the first state-backed mosque in Athens on the site of a former naval base in Votanikos.

The prayer venue - a 1,000 square meter, two-level building without a minaret - will be able to accommodate about 350 worshippers.