Eco-friendly burial ground could be created alongside cemetery
PEOPLE IN Calderdale could soon have the option of an ecofriendly natural burial ground to lay their loved ones to rest.
Woodland and green burial sites have become popular in recent years, and now Calderdale Council is considering setting up a facility in Booth, Halifax.
Calderdale Council’s cabinet will meet at Halifax Town Hall next Monday, to decide whether to use land next to a conventional burial site.
It is envisaged there would be enough space for around 180 natural burial plots.
The council estimates this can be done for £2,000 and will give relatives the option of a natural burial for their loved ones. The council’s assistant director for neighbourhoods, Andrew Pitts, said natural burials were ecofriendly and would allow people to choose a burial service which was appropriate for their loved one and which reflected their values and beliefs.
“Keeping burial land in a natural state reduces the impact on the environment and will support biodiversity, allowing local wildlife to flourish,” he said.
According to the briefing papers to cabinet, green or natural burials do not usually include the embalming process, as the chemicals used may pollute the ground.
The coffins are often biodegradable, made from cardboard, recycled paper, wicker, banana leaf, bamboo or willow, and are designed to decompose. Alternatively a cotton shroud can be used instead of a coffin.
Natural burials are not marked with a headstone but are identified by a tree or flowers.
As the area is already designated for burials there is no requirement for planning permission. The council will inform residents and deal with any concerns that might be raised, should cabinet decide to go ahead with the proposal.
Councillors have also been told Booth has been chosen as demand for plots there is relatively low. The council plans to create a grave plan and create access from the existing cemetery.