Residents in Nelson, Lancashire, have expressed strong opposition to a proposed £4.4 million multi-faith cemetery on land behind Halifax Road, calling it 'wholly unsuitable'. The site, initially intended for the Muslim community, has been expanded to serve all faiths, but locals argue the land is prone to flooding, slopes steeply, and is surrounded by homes and wildlife habitats.
Peter Wilkinson, a father of two whose home borders the site, has led the campaign for two years. He told the Manchester Evening News: 'It's an absolute travesty. This isn't a case of nimbyism or racism. The site is just wholly unsuitable. There's a reason why previous planning applications for this land were refused.' He recalled playing on the land as a child and now walks his dog there daily.
Another resident, who overlooks the site, said his wife has considered moving if the 4,500-plot cemetery is approved. 'I wouldn't bury a loved one there and I wouldn't want to live next to a cemetery out of respect. We shouldn't be displacing animals and all the wildlife from their homes,' he added. He noted that surveys have already forced a 35% reduction in the usable area.
Local campaigners have distributed leaflets to raise awareness, as many residents were unaware of the plans. Pendle Borough Council, which owns the land, confirmed that the existing Walton Lane cemetery is expected to reach capacity within four years. The proposed 6.3-hectare site off Edge End Avenue and Halifax Road would provide approximately 4,500 graves for Pendle residents.
A council spokesperson stated that the authority is following the legally required consultation process. However, opponents remain steadfast, citing environmental and practical concerns over the development.
