Some cemeteries are waterlogged due to record rainfall
Recent record rainfall has meant disruption is likely at two of the borough’s cemeteries.
The Hatton Cemetery near Bedfont, where there is a high water table, sometimes experiences disruption to burials. This is the current situation and burials have been temporarily suspended.
The Borough Cemetery in Hanworth Road is also experiencing high levels of underground water, meaning that disruption to some burials is highly likely. At this current time burials have not been suspended, but this may change.
The Council is advising there could be particular disruption to traditional Muslim burials as the ground in the area of the cemetery where these burials take place has become waterlogged.
Cllr Ajmer Grewal, cabinet member for leisure and public health at the Council, said: “Our first thoughts are with the families of those affected by the disruption, and I’d like to reassure them we are doing all we can to help in what is already a difficult time for loved ones.
“We will continue to work with undertakers and local mosques to arrange burials, and will keep doing all we can to minimise any disruption.”
The Council has contacted undertakers and mosques within and around the borough to advise them of potential disruptions. They have also made contact with adjoining/neighbouring councils to advise them of the current situation in both cemeteries, and to let them know that undertakers or mosques may be in touch with them to arrange burials in their area.
The situation is being monitored on a regular basis, and it is hoped that despite continuing wet weather disruption can be kept to a minimum.
The borough’s cemeteries remain open, and visitors are advised to take extra care as the grass in certain areas is very wet and the ground water logged.
February 12, 2014