CAMPAIGNERS who have spent five years trying to get a Muslim cemetery have suffered a major setback after plans were rejected by a council committee.

It had been hoped the Athletics pitch, off London Road, Preston, would be used for a separate Muslim cemetery. The current area of land at Preston cemetary will be full within the next three years and campaigners have been looking for a new space for the past five years.

There has been much controversy surrounding the plans, from both local residents and environmentalists.

Loss of sporting facilities and highway safety issues have also been put forward against the plan.

Speaking to Asian Image, Valli Patel of the Preston Muslim Burial and Welfare Community said: "My view is they already had their mind set. We haven't quite digested the decision yet. But in our view there are very few areas close to the city centre which are viable and the problem has to be resolved.

"We are open to any options"

He added, "A lot of time was spent in carrying out surveys to see if the area of land was suitable.

"The current area of land will run out in the space of three years and there is a very big demand for a new ground in Preston. Members of the Muslim community will always be buried so other avenues don't come into it."

It has suggested that a go-ahead might have given the far right a platform to campaign on in the city.

Yousaf Motala , of Jamea Masjid in Frenchwood said, "The ground is abviously good enough to build on so why is the area not being put aside for a Muslim cemetery?."

"Local Council policy shouldn't be affected by the fear of the far right.

"Excuses such as these shouldn't come into it. If an area needs funding then it needs it because it is a deprived area."

However, a Council spokesperson said: "Applications are looked upon purely on planning alone."