Call for graves to be re-used

Two areas of old graves in Cannock's cemetery could be re-used for new burials to create space as it is currently full, it has been claimed.

The cemetery, off Pye Green Road, has been full since April last year so the only burials which take place there are in cases where people made provisions to be buried with relatives already there.

In other cases, people tend to be buried at Stile Cop Cemetery in Rugeley six miles away.

Cannock North Councillor Frank Allen said there were two fairly large grass areas within the site which would cater for an estimated 50 burials.

But the land had already been used for graves some years ago so any remains would need to be removed first.

He said: "The cemetery is currently full so if that land can be used, then it should be. People who have lived in Cannock should be able to be buried as close as they can to where they lived if that was their wish."

Councillor Allen said he would now pursue the matter via the relevant committee at the district council.

He believed the area in question was used for burials around 80 years ago or more and said families probably took out 50-year deeds on the graves which would have lapsed.

Kevin Lawlor, the district council's head of environmental services, said there were no national guidelines or policy on re-using burial space.

Mr Lawlor said: "Other local authorities have looked into this matter but re-using burial space would mean removing remains from the existing grave space."

He added: "This can be an emotive matter, both for remaining relatives and for those re-using a previous grave. Cannock Chase Council does not have a present policy or plans to do this, but council members can raise this matter through the normal political channels should they wish."