Solihull Council issues advice for local cemetery visitors

Solihull Council is advising residents about placing items at cemeteries across the borough.

The advice comes following an increase in unauthorised objects being left on the grassed areas of cremated remains plots.

There are also increasing numbers of ornaments being left within the scattering areas of the cemeteries, both on the lawns and also hanging from the trees.

Items placed in these locations are not permitted due to cemetery regulations as it can cause issues for other visitors trying to access graves, as well as affecting the standards of grounds maintenance.

As such, items that have been placed at Robin Hood, Woodlands or Widney Manor cemeteries in a way that does not meet the regulations will be removed throughout March and stored on site.

Councillor Tony Dicicco, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities & Partnerships, said: “We realise this is a very sensitive issue and try to balance the needs and wishes of all users of our cemeteries.

“If, unfortunately, items have been placed in an unauthorised manner, they will be removed and kept securely on site for a period of six weeks for people to collect.

“Signage has been installed at each cemetery to make people aware of what’s permitted, but if they are still unsure I would encourage them to contact our Bereavement Services team for further guidance.”

People can contact the Bereavement Services team on ‪0121 709 7009‬ or robinhoodcemetery@solihull.gov.uk

Read more: http://www.solihull.gov.uk/news/ArtMID/820/ArticleID/1575/Advice-for-Solihull-cemetery-visitors