🌿 Fen Ditton Parish Council Cemetery
Looking After the Cemetery for the Future
Why change is needed
Our cemetery is nearly full and we cannot expand. Some graves are over 100 years old, and some newer graves don’t follow the rules, which blocks paths and access. We need to manage the space fairly, respectfully, and sustainably so future generations also have a place to be buried.
What we are proposing do ✅
1. Reclaim unused plots
- If a grave was reserved more than 75 years ago but never used, we can take it back after notice.This affects empty plots only – no remains are disturbed.
2. Reuse very old graves
- Graves last used over 100 years ago may be carefully reused.
- Remains are reburied deeper in the same grave, leaving space above.
- War graves, listed memorials, and historic graves will not be reused.
3. Keep paths clear
- New graves must not block access.
- Families may be asked to adjust non-compliant memorials.
- If not, the Council may remove kerbs or memorials after notice and store them safely.
Families will always be informed 💌
- Notices placed on the grave, in the cemetery, and online.
- Letters sent to the registered grave owner (if details are available).
- Families will have 6 months to respond.
- If relatives object, reuse is delayed for 25 years.
Respect and dignity at all times 🙏
- Remains stay in the same grave.
- Memorials are preserved or carefully stored.
- Records and photographs are kept for history.
- All work is supervised by trained staff with official permission.
Questions or concerns?
Have a look at all the documents related to this proposal
We want to hear from you. Please contact:
📧 clerk@fenditton-pc.gov.uk
Together we can:
- Create more space for future burials
- Protect access for all visitors
- Care for the cemetery with dignity and respect