THE COUNCIL is set to consider a new report to ensure cemeteries in Redditch will be able to accommodate graves for future generations.
The Executive Committee at Redditch Borough Council will meet on Tuesday to look at the document which extends the life of Abbey Cemetery by 10 years.
The report will come as welcome news to the hundreds of residents who campaigned against the plan to annex part of Ipsley Meadows for a new cemetery.
Back in October 2021, the plans were previously approved by Redditch Borough councillors.
The proposal was lodged in response to a national shortage of burial sites. However, a campaign was sparked to stop the plans with more than 800 public objections.
Some residents feared it would be a loss to the Ipsley community as the land is used for recreational purposes, while others were concerned about the impact on wildlife.
When the Redditch Labour group took control of the council last May, it pledged to stop the proposal and confirmed the plans had been withdrawn in September.
The alternative site is near Morrison’s.
Portfolio holder for environmental services Coun Sharon Harvey said: “I am pleased to confirm Redditch Labour has created an alternative plan for cemetery provision.
“For many years the Conservatives told us Ipsley Meadow was a done deal and that there was no viable alternative for burial provision in the town.
“We were told burial space would expire by 2025, but we have identified an area which will give Abbey cemetery up to 10 years more burial provision.
“This means we can thoroughly investigate an alternative site near Morrisons – if this site is not viable, we will have time to look at other options.
“I recognise burial provision is an emotive subject.
“We have listened to residents and are working hard to deliver on our manifesto promises.”
Coun Joe Baker, Redditch Borough Council leader, added: “I am delighted we have been able to resolve the burial provision here in Redditch having been told, by the Conservatives, that we had less than 18 months provision left at the existing sites and there was no alternative to the Ipsley site.
“Thanks to the hard work of the Labour administration and officers, we have fulfilled yet another of our manifesto commitments to save Ipsley Meadow.”
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