Space in the current churchyard will shortly run out and the Church Council has considered where future burials should take place.
It is proposed to use an area to the north and east side of the church for re-burials and although there are graves there, most are more than 75 years old. This area is shown on the attached plan – Areas I and J. A small area would also be created as a children’s section.
The existing path will be upgraded and a new one laid to the new burial area. This will be a type of mesh so that grass can grow through it.
The re-use of churchyards is generally encouraged nationally as space for interment is limited and whilst there is no comprehensive guidance, local circumstances may vary from parish to parish.
Land may be re-used for burials where graves are more than 75 years old but care will be required. The re-use of land will be generally permissible where graves are 100 years old.
No existing gravestones or memorials will be removed.
Should anyone have any observations of the proposals, these should be received by the Parochial Church Council by 31st January 2025. Please contact either of the Churchwardens if
you have any comments or questions.
Contact details are on the church noticeboards.
St. Mary’s PCC, Tutbury