easthampshire.org

Wednesday 1st February 2012

East Hampshire District Council will search for a partner to help run a natural burial ground between Grayshott and Headley.

EHDC will be inviting companies experienced in running a natural burial ground to bid for the opportunity to manage Heatherley Wood.

The site will cater for those who have chosen a more ecological and environmentally-friendly burial.

The site, off Headley Road, was previously used for commercial purposes but has been turned back into green heathland thanks to extensive landscaping and planting work.

Natural burials, also called woodland or green burials, use sustainable burial practices, such as coffins made of bio-degradable materials, and planting memorial trees instead of head stones.

Natural burials are not affiliated to any religion and all are welcome to request a burial and have a service of interment.

Cllr Richard Millard said: “Working in a partnership will allow EHDC to share expertise and experience with an established company in this field, reducing our risk and increasing our prospects for success.

“The land at Heatherley Wood has been returned to a natural environment and many of the species associated with that type of habitat are already returning.

“The burial ground will be a beautiful and tranquil resting place, not only for the residents of Grayshott and Headley, where burial sites are scarce, but also for residents across the district and beyond who want their passing to have a minimal impact on the environment.”