Woodland burial site at Kelsterton Cemetery approved

Woodland burials promising a "return to nature" have been approved to take place at a cemetery in Flintshire.

The environmentally friendly funerals will be held at Kelsterton Cemetery, near Connah's Quay, and are designed to offer benefits to wildlife and nature conservation.

Flintshire council said it gave people a "new option" and a living memorial for loved ones.

The popularity of the burials has been growing over the past two decades.

Typically a 'green' burial site is designed to remain as natural as possible.

Usually the designated area remains wild with no manicured lawns, enabling it to become a haven for wildlife and wild flowers.

Internments are done in biodegradable caskets or shrouds and often a traditional tree is planted over a grave.

Councillor Kevin Jones, cabinet member for public protection, waste and recycling, said: "A woodland grave offers a return to nature for those who wish to be buried among the trees and wildflowers."

Chemicals would only be used if noxious weeds developed, said the council.

A number of woodland burial sites have been opened across Wales, including at Boduan Sanctuary Wood near Pwllheli; Aberystwyth Woodland Cemetery; and Usk Castle Chase in Usk, Monmouthshire.