Issue - meetings

To consider an update regarding burial capacity within the Borough

The Committee received a report, set out in agenda pages 29 to 32, which gave an updated position with regards to burial ground capacity within the Wokingham Borough, and details related to the proposed crematorium.

The report outlined that when the previous update had come to the Committee there had been concern over the provision of burial plots within the Borough. Since then, further research had been undertaken which identified approximately 1000 vacant plots, spread between both Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) and other sites. The current provision of vacant burial plots should provide for between 17 and 20 years of capacity based on current demands. The report added that a trend of increasing number of cremations had been seen within the Borough. There were a number of potential burial ground expansions planned, including the site owned by Earley Town Council at May’s Lane. Relating to the proposed crematorium, a market appraisal would be undertaken in February 2021, and this would include the unique selling point that the site would offer. The report outlined that the proposed crematorium would look to offer environmentally friendly service, including possible woodland burials.

Nigel Bailey, Interim Assistant Director - Housing & Place Commissioning, attended the meeting to answer Member queries.

During the ensuing discussions, Members raised the following points and queries:

·           What was the approximate amount of current vacant plots at WBC owned sites? Officer response – Approximately 500 plots were vacant across WBC sites.

·           How would the proposed crematorium promote environmentally friendly services when harmful emissions were released from coffins when cremated? Officer response – This was part of the unique selling point that was to be determined for this site. The site would look to operate as environmentally friendly as possible. Different ways of achieving this could include having no gas fires on site, and promoting coffins which did not release harmful pollutants into the environment when burnt. It was crucial that if this site was to be developed, then it needed to be done properly which necessitated thorough research and planning. Members asked that an update relating to the proposed crematorium return to the Committee when further research had been completed.

·           It was noted that approximately 400 new burial plots and 1400 new cremation plots would be provided in the Earley Town Council site, with work hopefully starting in the next couple of months.

·           Where were woodland burials proposed to take place? Officer response – The intention was to link a woodland burial site to the proposed crematorium. The location of either site was yet to be determined, however the sites needed to be well located and accessible.

·           Where was there provision for Jewish burials within Berkshire? Officer response – At present, there was no specific demand for this service within Wokingham. Officers would investigate where there was provision within Berkshire and provide an answer.

·           The Committee welcomed that when WBC was approached by a family whose father was of the Baha’i faith, a special area was provided within the St Sebastian’s site  ...  view the full minutes text for item 68