Opposition to the future Chinese cemetery, expected to be the largest in Europe at 55 hectares, focuses on its incompatibility with the conservation of the medieval farmhouse La Païssa. This estate, cataloged by the Diputació de Barcelona, includes an 11th-century defense tower, automatically qualifying it as a potential Cultural Asset of National Interest (BCIN) by the Generalitat.
“"I see it as very difficult to carry out an action truly respectful of the heritage, and the characteristics of the fig hui sought by the Chinese community are incompatible with the 11th-century farmhouse."
In addition to heritage concerns, the Associació per la Defensa i Estudi de la Natura a Catalunya (ADENC) has warned about the environmental impact. The ecological report highlights the risk of contamination to a water spring running beneath the property due to potential seepage from phytosanitary products or the tombs. The survival of the Xerocrassa Montserratensis snail, an endemic species in the area, is also threatened.
Facing local concerns, the Monistrol de Calders City Council defends the project as a key opportunity for economic revitalization. Mayor Arturo Argelaguer Martínez noted that the municipality has suffered high unemployment since the closure of the Fàbrica Nova in 2008 and relies on the creation of jobs and the constant arrival of visitors from across Europe.
“"Every month we are the town with the highest unemployment in the region, and I will do anything in my power to reverse it."
