I have just been informed by North Lincolnshire Council that Woodlands Crematorium will now be reopened to the public. This follows the concerns that I have forwarded to NLC and Communities Secretary from residents who have got in touch. I am pleased to see that we will be able to pay respects to our deceased loved ones once again.
The Council made its decision following changes in government guidance this morning to make sure that cemeteries and burial grounds remain open. Having lobbied the Government directly for an update in the guidance I am pleased to see a letter providing more clarity to the Government announcement made earlier this week which you can read below. I have also received a response from the Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick in direct response to my query on cemeteries, which you can read below too.
We had previously faced challenges as the Crematorium (which must rightfully observe strict social distancing measures) and the cemetery were looked upon as the same "plot". I am pleased to see that a common-sense solution that treats them both separately is being implemented.
I hope the changes will provide some comfort for anyone who has lost someone close recently and allow family members to tend to their loved one’s memorials and pay their respects.
I’d like to thank the NLC for making the decision to re-open Woodlands with social distancing measures in place.
Lastly, I want to urge everyone to take care and observe the distancing guidance at all times in all public places. Those who are attending funerals should follow the additional social distancing measures, and those mourning in the cemetery should take extra care in keeping their distance.
Update from North Lincs Council website:
Thursday 23 April, 11am
Woodlands Cemetery to reopen
The grounds at Woodlands Cemetery are to reopen today following changes in Government regulations. People visiting the grounds are asked to follow Government advice on social distancing.
Funerals are still going ahead with staff working hard to ensure people’s safety. Only close family members (spouse/partner, parents, brother, sister and children) can attend cremations and burials and they must keep two metres apart. Mourners are being asked to wait in their car until the funeral car arrive.
The Crematorium building remains closed to the general public.
Image copyright Mike Kirby