Cemetery extension needed after Covid death rise

The expansion plans for the Vale cemetery will be "very similar to those already in place", Luton Borough Council said

A cemetery could be extended by 7,000 graves to cope with a rise in deaths and burials during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Luton Borough Council said plans were being finalised to expand The Vale cemetery on to green belt land, next to the town's existing cemetery in Stopsley.

A survey in 2018 found the existing cemetery would run out of space by 2025.

The extension already has planning permission, but the council said the detail of the plan was being finalised and it hoped the site could be in use by May.

The site could include about 700 "natural" burial spaces alongside the traditional gravestones.

"Our goal is to retain the openness of the site, which will help to preserve the tranquillity and biodiversity of the area," the Labour-run council said.

It had engaged "with funeral directors, faith leaders and families about the plans".

'Sensitivity'

There will be improved drainage "so that one grave doesn't flood the other", as it was an issue that had affected the current site, it said.

Items that could cause flooding, like paving slabs, tiles or artificial grass, would not be allowed, and personal tributes must not encroach adjacent grave space or the walkway space between graves.

Planting of trees and permanent seating will also not be allowed, but loan chairs will be available, it added.

Javed Hussain, deputy leader and portfolio holder for sustainable development and highways, said: "We understand the sensitivity of this matter, but the regulations we’re implementing will ensure the longevity of Vale cemetery as a burial ground for the community."

Plans will be on display from 14 to 20 February at Luton Central Library, and a final decision on what the new graveyard would look like was expected to be made in April.