Burial Reform: Addressing Burial Space Shortages

The Law Commission has launched a public consultation to address the urgent issue of dwindling burial space in England and Wales. Burial laws, some of which date back to the 1850s, are inconsistent and outdated, with different regulations depending on whether burial grounds are managed by local authorities, the Church of England, the Church in Wales, or private entities. This fragmented legal framework has resulted in gaps in safeguarding the dignity of those interred, particularly as burial spaces run out in urban areas. See their consultation paper and a summary.

A key proposal is the reuse of graves, with strict safeguards in place. Graves could only be reused 75 years after the last burial, and public consultation would be required before any changes could be made, allowing relatives to express concerns. The consultation, launched on 3 October 2024, invites feedback on this and other issues, such as the regulation of burial grounds and the management of closed or disused cemeteries.

Cremation laws, although updated in 2017, also face unresolved issues, including disputes over entitlement to ashes, ownership of medical implants removed before cremation, and uncollected ashes at funeral directors’ premises.

The Law Commission encourages public engagement via an online questionnaire, with the consultation open until 9 January 2025. Feedback will shape final recommendations, which are expected by the end of 2025. These reforms are critical to ensuring burial space for future generations while respecting public sentiment and funeral traditions.

Your Opinions Count: Share Your Views on Burial Spaces

As part of the Ballast Hills Burial Ground (BHBG) project, we are exploring how people perceive and use burial spaces, with a focus on BHBG. However, you don’t need to be familiar with BHBG or live nearby to contribute—your insights are invaluable in helping us understand the broader significance of burial spaces and inform future engagment activities.

How You Can Help:

  • Take the Survey: Scan the QR code or use this link to participate. It takes about 15 minutes. It closes on 21 September 2024.
  • Share It: Please share this post to anyone who might be interested. Feel free to post it on your communication channels or office bulletin board, too

Thank you for your time and input! If you have any questions or need further information, send us an email at ballast.hills@newcastle.ac.uk.