Alternatives to traditional burials a real possibility

A year on from the introduction of Argyll and Bute Council’s woodland and green burials policy arrangements have been put in place to make an environmental interment a real option for people in Argyll and Bute.

Seen as a natural extension of an environmentally aware lifestyle, woodland burials are less formal than traditional burials, with the deceased being intered in a shallower, single lair. The coffins are biodegradable, with the material tending to be wicker or bamboo. 

Maintenance of these sites is in keeping with the natural woodland setting, with the grass being cut only once a year and trees being planted around the grave to create a pleasant, natural environment over time.

Policy Lead for Roads and Amenity Services, Councillor Ellen Morton, explained: ‘’We are aware that this type of burial is an attractive option for some people which is why we have put the measures in place to make it a real possibility.

‘’The Council is committed to the very best standards for every service.

‘’As people become more environmentally aware some may wish to provide important environmental benefits after they are gone, giving a true sense of creating life from death.

‘’We would encourage anyone interested in this type of burial to get in touch with our helpful amenity services staff who will be able to provide more information and advice.’’

These burials require more land than a traditional burial due to the low density of the lairs and the single graves. This, combined with the maintenance regime, which differs significantly from that of the more traditional parts of the cemeteries, means the price will be around twice that of a conventional lair.

There are four cemeteries in Argyll and Bute which include specific woodland burial areas, using parts of the cemetery that naturally lend themselves to future planting:

·         In Mid-Argyll - Carrick Cemetery in Tarbert

·         In Bute and Cowal - Strachur Cemetery

·         In Oban, Lorn and the Isles - Pennyfuir Cemetery in Oban

·         In Helensburgh and Lomond - Barbour Cemetery in Cove

For further information go to http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/council-and-government/burials-and-crematoria-contact-details or call 01546 605514.

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