Decision deferred on green graveyard plan

Decision deferred on green graveyard plan

20 March 2019

LOCAL politicians have deferred a planners’ recommendation to refuse permission to develop Northern Ireland’s first woodland graveyard outside Downpatrick.

The decision to allow those behind the controversial proposal for a 14-acre site at Loughmoney more time to provide additional information was taken at last week’s meeting of Newry, Mourne and Down Councils’ Planning Committee.

Plans for the graveyard, which has split public opinion, were unveiled in September 2017 by Down to Earth Ltd, which hosted a series of public consultation meetings to outline the detail of its proposal.

Those behind the ‘green graveyard’ project, which would be sited off the Ballyculter Road and contain parking provision for 50 cars, say they are confident that the proposal would have a low environmental impact and offer an alternative to those seeking an environmentally-friendly approach to burial.

They argue there are no designations that would preclude a development of this nature and that the proposal will enhance the location by creating and enhancing shared space, supporting good design and improving the built and natural environment.

Supporters of the project also contend that the project will “preserve restore and enhance ecosystems,” turning an arable field into a nature reserve.

In papers submitted ahead of last week’s meeting, planners confirmed they had representations in support and opposition to the proposal, with the planned burial site having no headstones, with all burials recorded on a map.

Significantly, planners confirmed that while there can be no objections in principle to the proposal, those behind the project had not provided the requested additional information. 

They revealed that while extra time was allowed to comply with the request, no further extension was being afforded with the recommendation to refuse the application now being made.

Planners added: “While it is considered that the proposal will not create any unacceptable visual or residential impact due to its nature, it is considered further information is required for the consultees which also encompasses a number of concerns raised from interested parties.”

Planners confirmed Environment and Rivers Agencies are among those who still require further information to enable them to fully assess the planning application and provide detailed comment. 

Planners had described the information they required as “crucial and pertinent” to the application and that it was most unfortunate that it has not been provided. 

They said while there may be no objection in principle to the proposal “it is not possible to fully consider the merits of the case at this time.”