Scaled-down Muslim cemetery plans resubmitted

Plans for a new Muslim cemetery near Peterborough have been resubmitted after being scaled back by about 80% following concerns over an earlier application.

The revised proposal by Green Meadows charity would create a burial ground on 1.73 hectares (4.27 acres) of land off Old Peterborough Road in Sutton, replacing a previous 8.5 hectares (21 acres) scheme.

The applicant said the redesigned scheme addressed concerns while providing "a dignified and accessible environment".

The original plans, submitted in 2024, included almost 8,500 burial plots, a ceremony building, and landscaping. The revised scheme includes an informal burial layout, a 54-space car park, and outdoor ablution facilities.

Green Meadows said there was an "urgent need" for additional Muslim burial space in Peterborough, arguing that current provision at Eastfield Cemetery does not fully meet the religious needs of the community.

The planning statement said the proposed burial plots would be laid out facing the Qibla, the direction of Mecca, so burials can take place in accordance with Islamic rites and traditions.

The previous plans were backed by the National Burial Council, which acknowledged the "need for a dedicated Muslim burial space", and 21 local imams, said the cemetery would help preserve cultural identity and strengthen community ties.

Parish councils in Ailsworth, Sutton and Castor opposed the earlier scheme, arguing it was too large for local needs and out of keeping with the area's rural character.

Planning officers recommended refusal of the original plans, saying the development would be out of keeping with the rural landscape, before the application was withdrawn in January.

The applicant said the redesign addressed those concerns through a smaller site, informal layout, no major buildings and additional tree and hedgerow planting.

Peterborough City Council is yet to decide on the proposal.

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