Upchurch Parish Council - Burial Ground Proposal Update

In March 2015 we invited comments on a proposal for a “lawned burial ground”, allowing 1 foot of earth for planting in front of the headstone. This is due to the increasing numbers of plots that are non-compliant with the current burial ground rules and regulations, which raise issues associated with grass cutting, increased maintenance costs and safety.

Thank you to those plot holders who made comments and gave us feedback relating to this proposal, this has been useful and much appreciated. We welcome your continued input into this project and hope that you will be willing to work with us to come up with a solution to these issues. 

As a result of this feedback, it has become apparent that some people would welcome having their plot turfed, as they are having difficulty maintaining it. We are therefore planning a phased approach to our proposal, starting with these plots and those that are unkempt and clearly not being looked after.

The most common plot non-compliance issues are:
· Kerbstones, hedges, edgings and boundary markers

· Loose stones, chippings, bark & other dressings

· Planting of shrubs/trees

· Memorial items & vases (including glass) not approved by the Parish Council

All of the above are against the rules and regulations. If the plot you are responsible for is non-compliant, please address this urgently by removing the above items. If you have difficulty with this, please contact the Clerk: clerk@upchurchpc.kentparishes.gov.uk or Tel: 01634 363906.

If you would like a copy of the burial ground rules and regulations or have difficulty maintaining a plot you are currently responsible for (and would like it to be turfed), please contact the Clerk who would be happy to help you.

Thank you

Upchurch Parish Council
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