Rest in peace (New Zealand)
By Jamie Oliver, Nantwich Chronicle
ONE of the first private woodland burial grounds in the country could be opened at Nantwich. It will cater for people who want an alternative to traditional cemeteries.
Wealthy landowner Lady Rona Delves Broughton is planning to convert her private cemetery grounds behind St John’s Church at Doddington Hall. It comes as a swift response to a growing demand for green burial grounds.
Woodland burial grounds offer commemorative trees instead of headstones and biodegradeable coffins, made of bamboo, chipboard or willow. Hedges will be allowed to grow to encourage birds to nest and special plants and shrubs will be planted to attract butterflies and insects.
Ashes can be scattered within the grounds. Lady Delves Broughton explained: ‘There is much demand for natural burial grounds and there are very few in the country. It is totally unique for this area. ‘We want to create an area of natural rustic beauty, encour-aging wildlife and a very discreet place where people may spend time quietly and find peace. ‘People can remember their loved ones in completely natural surroundings which blend in with the countryside.’
Undertakers are welcoming the scheme. Graham Tresidder, of Tresidder’s Funeral Services, said: ‘These woodland grounds are becoming increasingly popular. I would think they will be very well established within the next 10 years.
‘It’s just something a bit different and offers families another choice.’ The scheme has been listed to go before decision makers at Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council’s Planning committee next month.
Source - http://iccheshireonline.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0…iteid=50020&headline=rest-in-peace–name_page.html