More than 200 local residents packed a public meeting called to oppose a controversial new cemetery between Oswaldtwistle and Blackburn proposed by the charitable arm of the billionaire Issa brothers' business empire.

They gathered at the Stanhill Social Club in Stanhill Road on Wednesday, November 20, to vow to fight the scheme, despite it having been scaled back.

The original planning application was withdrawn in January 2022 after a wave of protests.

The new application submitted to Hyndburn Council by the Issa Foundation earlier this month halves the size of the graveyard, reduces the number of plots by two-thirds and moves it to the northwest edge of the site near the M65 bridge, away from any houses.

The original proposal on 84 acres of land off Blackburn Road on the outskirts of Oswaldtwistle was for 35,000 burial plots while the new one has just 12,250.

The 'standing room only meeting' was convened by local St Oswald's ward Cllr Zak Khan, Hyndburn Conservative group's leader, his St Andrew's ward Tory colleague Cllr Steven Smithson, and the 'Stop the Cemetery' Volunteer Committee.

It resolved to oppose the proposed cemetery development on Green Belt land over issues ranging from alleged environmental degradation and groundwater contamination to traffic safety.

Cllr Khan, who chaired the meeting, said: "We oppose this proposal for its lack of need, its poorly chosen location, and its potential to disrupt the beautiful rural landscape, threaten wildlife, and increase flood risks.

"The proposed site, a valued agricultural space, is at risk of being transformed into a high-traffic area, with over 400 attendees a day anticipated at large funerals.

"The site poses a significant risk of groundwater contamination.

"Residents are also deeply concerned about traffic safety on Blackburn Road.

"Increased traffic from daily funerals would strain the road network, heightening the risk of accidents.

"The land supports protected wildlife - including red-listed bird species, bats, and deer - all of which are at risk of displacement.

"The development would permanently alter the area’s agricultural heritage and beautiful rural aesthetic, undermining its value as a community asset.

"The needs assessment makes it clear that there is no further need for more burial space in Hyndburn.

"Residents voice concerns over long-term maintenance and the risk Hyndburn Council could be left with the financial burden of managing a site ill-suited to its purpose.

"We call on the Issa brothers to withdraw the application and recognise the anxiety and hurt it is doing by forcing this proposal on a proud town."

An Issa Foundation spokesperson said: “Many of the concerns raised during this residents' meeting have already been addressed by professional advisers with relevant knowledge and expertise.

"Comprehensive reports have been completed including the need analysis, traffic impact, groundwater, and other associated considerations.

"We would like to reassure residents the area will be landscaped to the highest standards, with ongoing maintenance provided by the Issa Foundation.

"Additionally, this space will remain green in perpetuity and will be a valuable community asset for future generations.”