The expansion of Haycombe Cemetery was officially opened yesterday by the Chairman of the council. The space available at the cemetery has increased by around fifth to thirty seven acres with new planting, trees, and a landscaped woodland area.
The improvements to the site build upon Haycombe’s success as a three time winner of the national Green Flag Award which honours the best green spaces in the country.
Councillor David Dixon (Lib-Dem, Oldfield), Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said, “Haycombe has served local communities over many years. Bath & North East Somerset Council has now extended the burial grounds significantly so that there is sufficient room for Haycombe to accommodate the wishes for families to bury their loved ones here.
“The landscaping arrangements have been created after listening to local families and understanding what will be the best, long-term solution for the types of surroundings and burials that people want. They represent one of our most cherished clean and open spaces in our district.”
Councillor Peter Edwards, Chairman of Council, added, “The Cemetery has always been a pleasant and peaceful location for families and friends to reflect on the lives
of their departed loved ones. These improvements make the site even better and I hope that as many people as possible will come forward with sponsorship for the new trees and benches.”
When the cemetery was created by Bath City Council in 1937 following the closure of Locksbrook and St. James’ Cemeteries, the whole site was mapped for burial, although only half was landscaped. Since opening in 1937, the cemetery has had over 22,500 interments. The rest was let out to a neighbouring farmer – now seventy-five years on the Council is now expanding into part of the site with space for an estimated 50 further years
Find out more about the facilities at Haycombe and the opportunities to sponsor trees and benches by contacting the main office on 01225 396020.
