A BID to open a religious school near Corporation Park, Blackburn, has been rejected after two councillors said they would not send their children and grandchildren there on safety grounds.

Faruk Miah had hoped to transfer a Madrassah teaching 25 children about Islam from existing premises in Lynwood Road to a nearby single storey clothing factory at the rear of Leamington Road Baptist Church.

Officials recommended that Blackburn with Darwen planning and highways committee approve the proposal.

However councillors rejected the scheme on safety grounds after two members - Labour’s Phil Riley and Tory Jacqui Slater - expressed concerns about access for emergency vehicles and escape routes for pupils in case of a fire or other problem.

Now Mr Faruk is to appeal the decision.

In May, the committee also refused planning permission because of concerns about the buildings suitability for use as a school because of locked alley gates on adjacent back streets.

The proposal was resubmitted with three new windows added to improve lighting and the use of double doors at the back as a fire escape.

However, these changes did not satisfy Couns Riley and Slater.

Coun Slater said: “I’m sorry this building is just not safe or suitable. I wouldn’t want my children or grandchildren to go there.”

Count Riley expressed concern over the alley gates and access for emergency vehicles, whether they were locked or open.

He said: “I agreed with Jacqui. I wouldn’t want to send my children or grandchildren there.”

After a discussion with officers, the committee voted to refuse the change of use on grounds of safety and unsuitability in respect of the alley gates and surrounding area.

Mr Faruk’s agent Khalid Khan, of Khalid Khan and Associated in Whalley Range, said: “My client is obviously disappointed with this decision.

“He will appeal it. We appreciate the concerns but my client has got the keys to the alley gates and can unlock them as necessary.

“The two year temporary permission for his existing madrassah is due to run out and were are talking about giving religious instruction from 5pm to 7.30 pm from Mondays to Fridays only.”