Mosque plans near Royal Military Academy leave Brit defence chiefs 'concerned'

London, Feb. 21 (ANI): Plans to build a giant mosque overlooking Britain's top military academy has come under fire after top defence chiefs claimed that the new structure poses a security threat to budding Army officers at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

"Sandhurst has put in an objection on the grounds of security," News of the World quoted a Ministry of Defence spokesman, as saying.

The building, which would have a huge dome and two 100 feet minarets towering over the soldiers' parade ground, has been given a go-ahead by council chiefs.

But security experts have warned the mosque could become a magnet for radical Muslims if it goes ahead.

"We have some concerns and have been checking links with known radical mosques in other areas and postings on websites. Police special branch has asked to brief the local council," a security source said.

Top brass have lodged an official objection backed by 7,000 residents who signed a petition.

Campaign leader Alan Kirkland said: "A lot of people are questioning the size of the minarets which will overlook the whole of the academy."

Local MEP Nigel Farage added: "I am appalled at such an idea. Many fear it could pose a grave security risk."

Many royals, including the Queen, are regular visitors at the academy, and princes Charles and Harry were commissioned here.

Local Muslims, who have been worshipping at a Victorian former school building for 14 years, have been campaigning to knock it down.

Abdul Wasay Chowdhury, of the Bengali Welfare Association, said: "We have designed the new mosque very carefully to enhance the local area." (ANI)