Quakers fear new home will disturb historic burial site

The burial site on Greenhill Lane has been used for centuries by the Quaker community

Quakers have spoken out after plans for a new home have been approved close to their historic burial ground.

Developers were granted permission to build a three-bedroom house next to the 17th Century site on Greenhill Lane near Alveston in South Gloucestershire.

Bristol Quakers, which has used the site continuously for 365 years, fear the building will disturb their funerals, which are held in silence.

Developers Holly and Alan Mitchell said: "We're a family with disabled children and our intention to convert the stables is driven by a genuine need to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for our children."

Under the proposals, approved by South Gloucestershire Council, the stables will be converted into a home before a replacement stables will be built next to the burial ground, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Mr and Mrs Mitchell said living in close proximity to the horses is important to their disabled children as the animals are "incredibly nurturing and therapeutic".

The applicants said they will work with their neighbours to meet their needs

Dating from 1656, the site is considered one of the earliest Quaker burial grounds in England

Paul Whitehouse, from Bristol Quakers, said it was important to remember that they worship principally in silence.

"When a funeral takes place the silence that we have hitherto enjoyed in that burial ground, save perhaps for the birdsong, will no longer be possible.

"That is the most important aspect of our objections to this case.

"We wish to ensure that we remain able to bury and visit our dead in peace, without any interruptions from others," he added.

The developers said their primary goal was to create a "safe haven" for their children.

They added: "We're more than willing to take the necessary steps to ensure our plans align with the needs and concerns of our neighbours."