Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council is reassuring families following concerns about regulations governing the placement of tributes and personal items on graves within the Borough’s cemeteries.
The Council understands how important it is for families to personalise graves with flowers, decorations and other meaningful tributes, and appreciate that some people may be upset by the restrictions, particularly where items have been in place for many years.
The regulations are in place to ensure that cemeteries remain safe and accessible for everyone. Items that extend beyond designated grave spaces or create obstructions can present safety risks, affect neighbouring graves, and make it difficult for staff to carry out essential maintenance or future burials.
Families are reassured that they can still place appropriate tributes and other personal items provided they comply with the cemetery regulations.
The Council has a responsibility to manage the cemetery for the benefit of all grave owners and visitors and recognises that these changes may be difficult for some families, but the rules need to be applied fairly and consistently across all cemeteries.
Cllr Bobbie Greenwood, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Health, said:
"We fully appreciate how personal and emotional this matter is. We know that the tributes people place on graves are often incredibly meaningful and are an important way of remembering someone they love.
"We want to be clear that we are not stopping families from personalising graves or expressing their love for those they have lost.
"Our intention is to work with families to ensure they understand why these regulations are necessary, and to ensure our cemeteries are safe, accessible and respectful spaces for everyone.
“The removal of non-compliant items will be in accordance with the Council’s cemetery regulations to ensure we are following national guidance.”
While work is currently progressing through Marston Lane Cemetery in Bedworth on a section-by-section basis, all other Council-owned cemeteries across the borough will be addressed according to the Council’s Cemetery Regulations.
Anyone unsure about what is permitted is encouraged to contact the Cemeteries Office for advice and clarification.